Study and work in New Zealand: in-demand fields to explore

New Zealand, a land of stunning landscapes and friendly locals, offers exceptional opportunities for those seeking international work or study experience.

With a vibrant education system and welcoming progressive policies, New Zealand has become an increasingly popular destination for those seeking world-class educational and career opportunities, with sustainability in the mix, beyond the boundaries of home. As the nation actively promotes itself as an international education hub, those who choose to pursue further studies in New Zealand can even explore seamless transitions between education and employment – allowing you to fulfil two of your greatest life goals simultaneously!

Join us as we explore the various promising and high-demand fields in New Zealand, helping you better visualise a roadmap for your academic and professional journey ahead.

Seeking out opportunities in New Zealand's thriving industries

New Zealand’s economic landscape is ever evolving, presenting exciting opportunities across various sectors and industries. As identified by Invest New Zealand, the New Zealand Trade and Enterprise's (NZTE) Investment wing, competitive sectors in New Zealand today include renewable energy, technology and innovation, tourism and hospitality, food and beverage, and wood processing and forestry.

While it’s still possible to move to New Zealand for a degree or job in another field, foreigners with backgrounds that align with existing and upcoming trends may find it easier to match with their desired employers, organisations, and institutions.

Understanding these industries will thus empower you to make informed decisions about your education and future careers and to take full advantage of the opportunities presented to you.

1. Technology and innovation

New Zealand’s physical distance from the rest of the world has resulted in the cultural prizing of innovation and ingenuity, and one sector where this value has been allowed to truly flourish is in technology.

From space-bound transport to renewable energy sources, New Zealand has distinguished itself from the pack thanks to robust and enabling regulatory environments, unique terrains suited for test sites and data analysis, and progressive taxes that support research and development spending.

As such, international students and skilled professionals with a passion for technology, software development, or artificial intelligence will find a welcoming environment here. The integration of theory and practical application in New Zealand's tech education ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the rapidly evolving tech landscape and may even apply directly to internship and first job opportunities via their institution’s partner organisations.

2. Healthcare and nursing

Healthcare and nursing jobs are in high demand worldwide, and New Zealand is no exception. A significant portion of existing healthcare professionals are expected to retire in the next five years, and local enrolments have been falling–offering foreigners an opportunity to contribute to the nation’s quality healthcare standards.

The New Zealand government has even listed several healthcare and nursing professions on the fast-tracked Residency Green list, which could qualify you for Tier 1 Straight to Residence or Tier 2 Work to Residence Visas, respectively. Examples of occupations on the list include clinical psychologists, dental technicians, optometrists, paediatricians, and registered nurses.

If you plan to study healthcare or nursing-related degrees in New Zealand, you can also look forward to gaining hands-on experience, internships, and practical training that will prepare you for a dynamic and rewarding career in the field.

3. Construction and infrastructure

New Zealand's commitment to enhancing its infrastructure has created a demand for professionals in construction and related fields, thanks to multiple high-budget projects supported by the government. The construction and infrastructure sector continues to be robust, offering opportunities for international students to be part of transformative projects in sectors from civil engineering to sustainable construction practices.

Be it truck drivers, crane operators, mechanics, or site planners, individuals in this field are uniquely positioned to witness and participate directly in the growth of the country’s infrastructure. Adjacent fields such as agriculture and forestry, engineering, and the energy sector also present their own opportunities, especially with an ageing local population opening up gaps to be filled by overseas persons.

4. Tourism and hospitality

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand has a vibrant tourism industry that values professionals with a passion for hospitality and adventure. The industry has long been one of the largest employment sectors in the country, ranging from luxury hotels to thrill-seeking attractions to independently owned small-town BnBs (bed and breakfast). And following the return of travellers from all over the world in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, international applicants have an advantage in possessing the cultural know-how needed to interact with and meet the needs of international tourists.

Whether it's managing resorts, organising events, or promoting sustainable tourism practices, New Zealand's tourism industry offers diverse and exciting career paths in almost every part of the country. Though major cities like Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, and Wellington remain popular magnet destinations for tourists (and students!), New Zealand’s reputation for outdoor and nature travel means there are educational and career opportunities widely available in the country.

How to align your studies with future industry demand

While it’s important to choose a degree that you have a genuine passion for, many also feel the need to balance passion with practicality by opting for education pathways that are seen as ‘marketable’ or in-demand. Be it New Zealand or New York, choosing the right course of study is crucial as a way to kickstart your future career, which can, in turn, shape your chances of working, studying, or living overseas.

Here are some ways to ensure your studies align with future industry demands:

1. Research market trends

Always stay updated with the latest trends and developments in your chosen field. This can be done by reading industry journals, attending conferences, and following relevant news sources. This will not only help you select courses that are in demand and relevant but also anticipate potential changes in employment trends over time.

2. Consult academic advisors and professional mentors

Don’t be afraid to seek guidance from your academic advisors, career counsellors, or professional mentors. Thanks to their wealth of experience, they can provide insights into which courses are most relevant to industry needs, offer recommendations based on your career goals, or even suggest upskilling opportunities to make your resume more competitive.

3. Explore internships and work placements

Many New Zealand universities offer internships and work placements as part of their courses. These provide hands-on experience in your field and allow you to build practical skills that are highly valued by employers while also connecting you with workplaces and organisations for future job opportunities.

4. Review university partnerships

Some universities in New Zealand have partnerships with industry organisations, including those in thriving and in-demand sectors. These partnerships often result in collaborative research projects, guest lectures, and access to the latest industry insights – all of which can be a great boon to your future career goals. Check if your university has such partnerships, and don’t be afraid to take advantage of them.

5. Maintain your language proficiency

English language skills are crucial for both academic success and employability in New Zealand, so you should always ensure that you meet the language proficiency requirements for your course. Consider seeking out preparation materials to help assess your English proficiency skills or work on areas that could be improved. Recognised by over 12,000 organisations globally, IELTS is the most accepted English proficiency test worldwide that you can consider to help you open countless doors to fulfill your overseas work and study goals.

6. Network with industry professionals

Building a professional network can lead to job opportunities and keep you informed about industry changes. Seek out industry events, workshops, and seminars to network with professionals in your field. You can also join professional associations in New Zealand related to your field of study or work, which often provide valuable resources and access to industry-specific publications. If you’re in the mid-career stage and seeking to switch jobs, job fairs can give you an overview of new pathways to explore.

7. Keep up with online courses and certifications

Increase the competitiveness of your resume or CV by pursuing courses online or other certifications in specialised areas. Many universities offer these options, and they can help you develop niche skills that are in demand.

8. Stay adaptable

Industries evolve rapidly and are driven by local, regional, and global forces. Be open to adapting your skills and knowledge as needed so that your skill set remains both unique and in demand.

Confidently explore work and study opportunities in New Zealand with IDP

Studying in New Zealand not only promises academic excellence but also positions students advantageously across an array of flourishing industries with promising outlooks.

As leading overseas education placement consultants, IDP's education experts can provide personalised guidance on choosing courses and universities that align with industry demand. Whether you’re looking to study abroad in Auckland, pursue further studies in Wellington , or get your degree in Queenstown, we’re here to provide you with the resources and support needed to accomplish your dream. Our education consultants can also assist you with complex visa-related matters, ensuring your smooth transition to studying and working in New Zealand.

Book a free counselling session or tap the message button to drop us a question today. Make sure you have the personalised education and career-related guidance you need to prepare and embark on your study abroad journey in New Zealand.