In 2025, New Zealand grocery store roles—including positions like shelf-stackers, cashiers, department assistants, and customer service staff—are occasionally available to international applicants through visa sponsorship, under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program.. While supermarkets such as Countdown (rebranding as Woolworths), New World, Pak’nSave, and Four Square may sponsor foreign workers, such opportunities are limited to instances where employers can demonstrate local worker shortages and comply with strict labour market tests and advertising requirements.. Candidates typically need basic English proficiency, sometimes relevant retail or customer‑service experience (especially for senior roles), and must meet New Zealand’s health and character standards.
Job Details:
- Country: New Zealand
- Job Title: Supermarket worker
- Experience: 2 Years
- Education: Diploma or Bachelor’s degree
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes
Benefits:
Working in a grocery store in New Zealand with a visa sponsorship comes with several blessings:
- Relocation Assistance and Visa Sponsorship:
Major supermarkets, including Countdown (Woolworths NZ), Pak’nSave, New World, and Foodstuffs, are authorized to sponsor overseas laborers. Certain employers provide: Sponsorship Certificate Financial support for visa applications Assistance with relocation (e.g., airport pickup, temporary lodging) - Job Security and Competitive Salary:
The range of hourly earnings is NZD $18–25, contingent upon the location and position. The following are the roles: Assistant in the retail industry Shelf stocker Cashier Team commander or supervisor Grocery labor is regarded as indispensable, as it provides consistent income and reliable employment. - Work Environment That Is Inclusive:
In New Zealand, grocery chains employ individuals from a variety of cultural origins. Supportive teams, frequently comprised of international counterparts, are frequently observed in inclusive, multicultural environments. It is an excellent opportunity to enhance one’s English language proficiency in a practical environment. - Legal Protections and Paid Benefits:
Full-time employees are entitled to the following: Paid annual leave for a minimum of four weeks Sick vacation Weekends and holidays Contributions to the KiwiSaver retirement savings program You are safeguarded by New Zealand labor laws, which encompass minimum wage standards and equitable dismissal. - Career Advancement and Training:
On-the-job training is typically offered, and no prior retail experience is necessary. Numerous employers provide internal promotions to its employees: supervisory positions Customer service administration Leadership of the department Formal training in business or retail qualifications is supported by certain employers. - Work-Life Balance:
A lifestyle that is both balanced and relaxed is available in New Zealand. Grocery jobs frequently adhere to predictable shifts (morning, afternoon, weekend), which provide an opportunity to study or investigate. Living costs are generally lower in regional areas, and commuting is more convenient.
Requirements:
To qualify for a supermarket job in New Zealand, you typically want to meet the following criteria:
- International applicants must obtain a valid work visa. Typically, employers who wish to sponsor visas will require evidence of their capacity to work in New Zealand. Although some entry-level positions may necessitate minimal experience, senior-level positions, such as those in control or specialist departments, may necessitate relevant retail or customer support experience.
- Communication skills in English are typically essential for effective interactions with colleagues and clients.
Duties:
The duties and responsibilities of grocery store jobs can range primarily based on the unique role, but generally consist of:
- Assisting clients, managing inquiries, and guaranteeing customer satisfaction.
- Receiving deliveries, stocking cabinets, and guaranteeing that products are presented in an attractive manner.
- Maintain precise records, process transactions, and operate cash registers.
- Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the store, which encompasses the cleaning of the displays and aisles.
- Collaborating with colleagues to attain objectives and preserve an exceptional atmosphere.
Types of jobs:
Supermarkets offer a wide range of employment opportunities along with:
- Retail Assistant: Entry-level responsibilities that include replenishing cabinets, customer service, and cash register operations.
- Department Manager: Responsible for the management of inventory, ensuring quality, and overseeing distinct sections, such as production, bakery, or delicatessen.
- Store Manager: Accountable for the administration of personnel, the achievement of financial objectives, and the operation of universal storage.
- Warehouse Worker: Responsible for the organization of inventory, the management of deliveries, and the maintenance of environmentally friendly supply chain operations.
- As a customer service representative, I am responsible for addressing customer inquiries, litigation, and the reporting of product and service statistics.
Salary:
Earnings for grocery store jobs in New Zealand vary depending on elements along with region, role, and principles of the business enterprise. As of 2025, the approximate salary ranges are:
- Retail Assistant: NZD 18-22 hourly
- Head of Department: 20-25 NZD depending on hours
- Store Manager: NZD 50,000-70,000 per 12 months
- Stockist: NZD 18-22 according to the hour
- Customer Service Representative: 19-24 NZD according to the hour
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Application Process:
The application process for grocery jobs in New Zealand generally includes the following steps:
- Investigate job openings by consulting recruitment companies, employment boards, or supermarket websites.
- Update your resume/resume and gather all necessary documents, such as references or certificates.
- Please submit your application via the supermarket’s online portal or via email, as specified in the advertisement.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are supermarket or grocery store roles in New Zealand available with visa sponsorship?
Yes—employer-sponsored work visas (Accredited Employer Work Visa, AEWV) can be offered by major supermarket chains like Pak’nSave, New World, Countdown (Woolworths NZ), Foodstuffs North Island, Four Square, and Farro Fresh for roles such as cashier, retail assistant, stock controller, or department supervisor—but only in specific cases where local candidates are not available
Who sponsors these jobs and what payment levels stand out?
Chains commonly sponsoring include Pak’nSave, New World, Countdown (Woolworths NZ), Foodstuffs North Island, Four Square, and Farro Fresh. These companies are accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
Hourly salaries typically range from NZD $18–22/hr for entry-level positions (retail assistants, shelf-staff), with supervisory or departmental roles paying NZD $20–25/hr. Store managers may earn NZD $50k–70k/year.What are eligibility and visa requirements?
A genuine job offer from an employer accredited by Immigration NZ under AEWV.
The employer must advertise the role in NZ (e.g. for ≥21 days) and prove no eligible New Zealand candidates were available.
English proficiency and minimum work experience or qualifications may be required, especially for supervisory roles.
Permitted duration for low-skilled roles has been capped at 3 years continuous stay.
