Coming to New Zealand for Work.
Everything you need to know about working in New Zealand — pay, sites, H&S, and what to expect in your first week.
Everything you need to know about working in New Zealand — pay, sites, H&S, and what to expect in your first week.
Trade Assist looks after the people it places — including migrants.
When you relocate for work, the details matter. IRD number, bank account, accommodation, site inductions, drug tests, PPE. Trade Assist's Immigration & Pastoral Care Manager Isaac Cao has been through this process with hundreds of workers. He'll help you get sorted — from your first day in New Zealand through to being settled on site and paid correctly.
What You Need to Know
Your Right to Work
IRD Number
NZ Bank Account
Site Safe Foundation Passport
Drug and Alcohol Testing
PPE
Your Right to Work
To work in New Zealand you need a valid work visa, NZ citizenship, or permanent residency. Trade Assist verifies right-to-work for every candidate before placement.
Working in New Zealand — what to expect on site.
New Zealand construction and civil sites operate under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. Every site has an H&S induction before you start. Your employer of record is Trade Assist — not the host business. If something goes wrong on site, you call us. We manage all employment obligations: payroll, PAYE, ACC levies, holiday pay. You focus on the work.
Frequently asked questions.
Can I work in New Zealand on a visitor visa? 
No — you need a valid work visa to be legally employed in New Zealand. Trade Assist verifies right-to-work before any placement.
Does Trade Assist help with accommodation?
We provide guidance on accommodation options through our pastoral care programme. Contact Isaac Cao for support.
What certifications do I need for construction work in NZ?
Site Safe Foundation Passport is required for most construction sites. Trade Assist funds this for workers we place.
Who do I contact if I have a problem on site?
Call Trade Assist — we're your employer of record. H&S issues, pay queries, anything that comes up — we deal with it. You're not alone.