While remote work is typically appealing for the comfort and convenience it can provide, the prospect in New Zealand adds an extra allure, with the opportunity to relish in the country’s stunning landscapes and friendly people outside of work hours.
Even more so than those whose lifestyle consists of moving between countries to work remotely—commonly known as Digital Nomads—there are also scores of regular New Zealanders who have felt the pull to leave their offices for the comforts of home. As we continue to witness an era of continuous digitisation and an evolving trend of remote employment in a post-COVID era, New Zealand has emerged as an attractive spot for IT professionals worldwide seeking rewarding careers that aren’t bound by location.
New Zealand boasts a rich and varied IT industry, which includes both traditional sectors and innovative fields like cybersecurity and software services. According to the Digital Skills Aotearoa report prepared by the New Zealand Digital Skills Forum in 2021, 3,683 visas were approved for IT professionals to migrate to New Zealand in 2019 alone, with 4,462 jobs created – a 4.7% compound annual growth rate over 5 years.
We’ve built this all-inclusive guide to assist those of you who are aiming to hop on the trend and explore the IT job market in New Zealand. Exploring every step of the process, we guide you by identifying popular roles, crafting successful job applications, and assimilating into the local work ethos. With insightful tips, useful resources, and practical advice at your fingertips, you’ll be in a great position to secure a remote IT job in New Zealand that complements your unique skills and career goals.
Why Work Remotely in IT?
Due to the seismic shift that was the pandemic, the prevalence of remote work has drastically increased; a shift that, although not new, was greatly sped up by the global crisis, with IT taking the lead among industries embracing remote operations.
The development of cloud computing and collaborative tools has simplified the process of working remotely – much of which was ushered in by pandemic necessities, as seen in the likes of Zoom’s popularity. This ease of remote work has led many businesses to adopt flexible work arrangements, broadening their reach to global talent while allowing them to improve productivity and enhance employee satisfaction. According to a report from MarketsandMarkets, the remote work software market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 12.7% from 2021 to 2026, reaching $12.9 billion in value.
The IT industry particularly benefits from the trend of business digitalisation, which has led to a surge in demand for IT professionals. With better work-life balance, elimination of daily commuting, and the freedom to reside where you prefer, there is no better time to consider remote work.
The Most In Demand IT Roles in New Zealand
New Zealand’s vibrant tech landscape has given rise to a Green List, a catalogue of occupations that are in high demand in the country and critical to its economic progression. If you possess skills in these areas, you’ll find yourself at a considerable advantage when it comes to job hunting: in fact, depending on your occupation, you might find yourself granted residence immediately. Here is a selection of the most in-demand Green List IT positions in order of average vacancies across the nation, with supplementary wage and vacancy data sourced from seek.co.nz. As with many tech roles, there may be overlap between these roles in practice; especially in smaller teams or companies, where distinctions can become especially blurred.
IT Project Managers:
Interested in managing exciting tech projects and driving business growth? Blending technical knowledge with leadership skills, Project Managers play a crucial role in leading and implementing tech initiatives within New Zealand’s dynamic business landscape. Perfect for those proficient in coordinating teams, resources, and making impactful decisions, there are an average of 1,500 openings nationwide, with a handsome starting salary of around NZD 125,000-130,000.
Software Engineers:
Concerned with the big picture, Software Engineers apply engineering concepts to every aspect of software development. Ideal for individuals skilled in Python, Java, or C++, around 600 positions sit open nationwide, boasting a starting salary of NZD 90,000 for intermediate level developers, with around 2 to 3 years of experience. More senior roles, however, can reach up to NZD 120,000. With the opportunity to shape the tech landscape and make significant change through innovation, consider a career as a Software Engineer if you’re motivated by creativity and technical challenges.
Platform Engineers:
There is a growing interest in low-code platforms across various industries, as they provide a more efficient and cost-effective way to develop and deploy software, currently in high demand due to the increasing need for rapid digital transformation and the shortage of skilled developers. These platforms enable non-technical users to build and deploy applications quickly and easily, reducing the time and cost associated with traditional software development – with you right there to help create and maintain these platforms for them. With roughly 50 job openings nationwide, and median salaries ranging from NZD 110,000 to 130,000, you’ll be tangibly applying your creativity as the bridge between low-tech users and the world of applications.
IT Security Specialist:
As the guardians of New Zealand’s digital world, Security Specialists protect businesses nationwide from cyber threats. With a base amount averaging 100 positions open in New Zealand, and potentially more depending on your specialisation, this role offers a median salary beginning at NZD 70,000 or above for entry level roles. Skilled in implementing cybersecurity measures and handling potential breaches, you’ll safeguard the integrity of digital systems and contribute significantly to the nation’s tech sphere.
Legal Considerations for
Remote IT Jobs in New Zealand
New Zealand may offer a fantastic remote work opportunity for IT professionals, but don’t forget the paperwork. Both local and international workers should keep these legal aspects in mind.
Work visa requirements:
If you’re neither a citizen nor a permanent resident of New Zealand, you’ll need a valid work visa. The type of visa suitable for you can vary based on factors like your job type. For instance, you might be eligible for the Skilled Migrant Category, Essential Skills Work Visa, or even the Working Holiday Visa. You can ascertain your eligibility and apply through New Zealand Immigration’s online platform.
Tax implications:
Engaging in remote work could influence your tax responsibilities, both within New Zealand and in your native country. Are you aware of your tax residency status? Factors that determine this status include the length of your stay in New Zealand, the location of your permanent residence, and the source of your income. For more detailed insights, it’s recommended to consult the New Zealand Inland Revenue website.
Data privacy and security:
Working in the IT sector means you’ll likely deal with sensitive and confidential data, in which it becomes essential to adhere to regulations like the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020, which dictates the standards for handling personal information. Additionally, ensure that you remember to adopt the usual measures in safeguarding this data, using tools such as encryption, robust passwords, antivirus solutions, secure cloud storage, and more.
5 Steps To Applying for Remote IT Jobs in New Zealand
With all the legalese out of the way, starting your remote IT job hunt in New Zealand doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right approach, you can streamline your search and increase your chances of landing the perfect job. Patience and persistence are key – don’t be discouraged by rejections or slow responses, and keep going!
Determine Your Preferred Roles:
Start by pinpointing the exact IT position that aligns with your skills, education, passions, and career aspirations. Use the roles outlined earlier to focus your job hunt. As you gain experience and further hone your preferences in the industry, one of the benefits of IT is that there’s often many transferable skills and opportunities for parallel movement in your career.
Impress with your CV and Cover Letter:
Your CV and cover letter act as your personal brand. Customise them for every application, emphasising any prior experience with remote work and associated skills like discipline, effective communication, and time management. Though it might start feeling tedious, you won’t regret it when an employer notices your CV for a skill you might not have usually highlighted.
Build Your Network:
Participate in online communities, forums, and social groups related to New Zealand’s IT sector. Networking can open doors to job recommendations and keep you updated about industry news and trends. You could approach anything from ITP, a larger, general community, to NZOSS, a specialised community focused more around specific subjects (in this case, free and open source software).
Enhance Your Skills:
During your job search, consider strengthening your skillset to make yourself more attractive to employers. Explore online courses or accreditations that could enrich your CV, such as Open Polytechnic’s Information and Communication Technology Certificates and Diplomas.
Get Ready for Remote Interviews:
Once you’ve secured an interview, be prepared for it to be virtual. Ensure you have a stable internet connection, a quiet environment, and professional attire. Eliminating all potential sources of interruption or issues for the interviewer to catch upon can go a long way.
6 Tips for Adapting to your Remote Work IT Job in New Zealand
Securing your dream remote IT job in New Zealand is just the first step. Successfully transitioning into this new professional setting comes next. Remote working has its unique set of hurdles, but with some insightful guidance, you can smoothly acclimate.
Build a Consistent Schedule:
Develop a day-to-day work plan that enhances productivity, factoring in any time zone differences. Don’t forget to incorporate periodic breaks to ward off fatigue. Without officially imposed structure, personal effort towards a framework can help a lot.
Equip Your Workspace:
Set up a distraction-free workspace that encourages efficiency. It doesn’t need to be a full room – even a well-lit corner with an ergonomic setup can do wonders. With how much your mental state can affect the quality and output of their work, why not reap the benefits of being able to customise the space you want to work in?
Maintain Open Communication:
Frequent communication with your team is crucial. Leverage digital tools like email, Slack, Zoom, or any other platform your company prefers to keep everyone in sync and create a sense of team spirit. Without the ease of in person communication, lubricating a team’s social gears can take a degree of effort.
Understand ‘Kiwi’ Work Ethics:
If you’re interested in meshing with your coworkers, it’s essential to appreciate and respect the New Zealand work culture, even when working remotely. New Zealanders, or ‘Kiwis’, appreciate a balanced work-life approach, candidness, and straightforward communication. The better you socially mesh, the more opportunities might come your way.
Leverage Flexibility:
One of the key perks of remote work is its flexibility. Whether it’s tailoring your work hours to fit your lifestyle or changing your home office scenery with a local café, use this adaptability to design a work life that suits you. This is a powerful tool against warding off burnout.
Prioritise Your Well-being:
The lines between professional and personal life can often blur when working from home. Ensure you dedicate time to self-care, physical activity, and social engagement to keep a balanced work-life rhythm.
Good Luck!
Kudos on your exciting new journey into New Zealand’s remote IT landscape! Should you choose to embark upon this path, our guide will ensure that you’re set to thrive in this fresh and exciting chapter of your life. Kia Ora and all the best!
If you’re driven by the aspiration to play a pivotal part in shaping New Zealand’s digital infrastructure, economy, and future, then our specialised IT recruitment services can provide the platform you need to excel. Archway is committed to connecting great employers to quality candidates. Check out our latest jobs, submit a vacancy, or learn more about our deep specialisation in the software engineering sector for more information.
