Working Gap Year in Auckland, New Zealand
A working holiday in Auckland with job support, guaranteed interviews, & the chance to experience life in New Zealand with like-minded travellers!
Duration: 10 – 52 weeks
Dates: Click here for availability calendar
Arrival day: Arrival: Wednesday, Project start: Thursday – we organise your accommodation for Wednesday night
Eligibility: Must be eligible for a work visa
Age: 18 – 35
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Highlights
- Earn a great wage to help fund your travels around New Zealand and beyond
- Explore Auckland and experience the city’s vibrant waterfront, parks, cafés, and nightlife
- Enjoy an unforgettable Far North surf and coastal adventure
- Learn to surf with experienced local guides on New Zealand’s stunning coastline
- Visit the spectacular Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean
- Experience sandboarding on the famous Te Paki sand dunes
- Discover beautiful beaches, scenic coastal road trips, and laid-back Northland culture
- Receive practical support with bank accounts, IRD setup, SIM cards, and settling into life in New Zealand
- 12 months of job support with access to exclusive work opportunities and online resources
This programme offers a fantastic opportunity to work and travel in one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world.
With our 12-month work and holiday package, you’ll receive comprehensive support with finding employment and completing all the essential paperwork needed to begin your adventure in New Zealand. Your journey starts with an exciting 7-night arrival package in Auckland, designed to help you settle in, meet fellow travellers, and experience the very best of New Zealand’s North Island.
The programme combines social activities, practical support, and adventure travel, giving you the perfect balance of independence and guidance. During your first week, our local support team will assist you with bank account setup, IRD registration, job guidance, and ongoing travel support to help you settle into life in New Zealand with confidence.
You’ll then head north for an unforgettable surf and coastal adventure along New Zealand’s stunning Far North coastline. Experience incredible beaches, scenic road trips, surf lessons, sandboarding, and the spectacular landscapes of Cape Reinga, all alongside experienced local guides and fellow travellers from around the world.
New Zealand offers fantastic opportunities for working holiday travellers, with entry-level jobs commonly available in hospitality, tourism, construction, farming, and factory work. Competitive wages make it possible to support your travels while exploring everything this incredible country has to offer.
Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s laid-back lifestyle, breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities, and unique Maori culture while creating unforgettable memories and friendships along the way.
Experience the ultimate start to your New Zealand working holiday with this exciting 7 Night Auckland Arrival Package and Northland Surf Adventure!
Meet like-minded travellers from across the globe and enjoy a week packed with adventure, social experiences, and practical support to help you settle into life in New Zealand. Based in Auckland for the start and end of the trip, you’ll receive help with everything from setting up your bank account and IRD number to job support and local advice, before heading north for an unforgettable surf road trip along New Zealand’s spectacular coastline.
Group size 5-15
Project Itinerary
Wednesday | Arrival into Auckland
Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand! Today is the recommended arrival day. Once you arrive in Auckland, make your way to your accommodation and settle in for your first night. Relax after your journey or head out and begin exploring the city before meeting your group tomorrow.
Thursday | Auckland Welcome Experience
Start your adventure with a guided city walking tour around Auckland, including the lively waterfront, Sky Tower area, and beautiful city parks. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and get to know your fellow travellers while watching the sunset over the city.
Friday | Working Holiday Setup & Social Night
Today is all about getting set up for your working holiday. The local team will assist you with practical essentials including bank accounts, SIM cards, job support, and important local information to help you settle into life in New Zealand. In the evening, head out to experience Auckland’s nightlife with a guided social evening, including drinks, games, and entry to popular venues.
Saturday | Northland Road Trip & Surf Adventure
Travel north from Auckland to New Zealand’s beautiful Far North coastline where your coastal adventure begins. After settling in, enjoy your first surf lesson before relaxing on the beach with the group.
Sunday | Surfing & Coastal Exploration
Wake up by the ocean and head back into the waves for another guided surf session. Spend the rest of the day exploring stunning beaches, scenic coastal roads, and the laid-back atmosphere of Northland.
Monday | Cape Reinga & Sandboarding Experience
Today you’ll travel to the northernmost tip of New Zealand to visit Cape Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, discover remote beaches and experience sandboarding down the giant Te Paki sand dunes.
Tuesday | Sunrise Surf & Return to Auckland
Enjoy one final sunrise surf session before returning to Auckland in the evening. Spend your last night relaxing with your new friends and reflecting on an unforgettable week of adventure.
Wednesday | Farewell & Ongoing Support
After a final group catch-up, the official orientation comes to an end. However, ongoing support continues throughout your time in New Zealand, with job assistance, travel advice, and access to online resources and recruitment services during your working holiday.
Accommodation: Your New Zealand Base
Auckland | JO&JOE Auckland (Shared Hostel Dorms)
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Prime Central Location: Stay in the heart of Auckland at JO&JOE, one of the city’s newest and most vibrant hostels. You are perfectly positioned near the Viaduct Harbour and Queen Street, with easy access to banks, supermarkets, and transport hubs for your onward travel.
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Modern & Social Living: Designed for the modern traveler, this hostel offers a clean, safe, and highly social environment. You’ll stay in comfortable shared dorms that strike the perfect balance between a relaxed atmosphere and a great place to meet your new travel crew.
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Top-Tier Facilities: The hostel features excellent shared spaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a welcoming team. It serves as your “home base” for the arrival week, where you’ll participate in welcome dinners and group catch-ups.
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Dining on Your Doorstep: With its central location, you are steps away from Auckland’s diverse dining scene, including local cafes, restaurants, and vibrant eatery villages.
Paihia & Tutukaka Coast | Coastal Surf Adventure
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Stay Connected: Enjoy free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the hostel to keep family and friends updated on your road trip.
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Coastal Relaxation: After a day of sandboarding or surfing, unwind in the outdoor spa pool or gather for a group gas BBQ—a staple of the New Zealand coastal experience.
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Evening Entertainment: Relax in the lounge with Sky TV or choose from an extensive library of movies for a chilled night in.
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Adventure at Your Feet: Take advantage of on-site kayak rentals to explore the stunning Bay of Islands and the Tutukaka Coast during your free time.
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Practical Amenities: Full laundry facilities (coin-operated washers and dryers) are available to freshen up your gear after your surf sessions.
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Indoor Social Space: During the cooler months, the games room—complete with a pool table, table tennis, and darts—provides the perfect spot for some friendly competition.
If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa and seeking employment in Auckland’s hospitality sector, the legal minimum wage you must be paid is NZD $24.50 per hour (as of 2026). This rate applies to all workers aged 16 and over, including temporary migrant workers like those on Working Holiday Visas . It’s important to note that while the minimum wage is the legal baseline, many hospitality employers, especially in urban centres like Auckland, may offer higher wages to attract and retain staff. Additionally, factors such as experience, specific roles (e.g., barista, chef), and shift timings can influence pay rates.
Travel arrangements
Airport: Auckland (AKL)
Arrival day: Wednesday.
Departure day: Wednesday. We suggest you book at least a couple of days accommodation following this until you have secured a job and make more permanent arrangements.
Supporting You
Our Auckland jobs team will be on-hand to help and support you through the entire 12 month duration or however long you may need it.
Included
- Access to your own personal ‘My Oyster’ account – our online portal where you can find out much more about the program and manage your booking
- Dedicated contact time with an experienced destination manager to discuss the project, answer any of your questions and for us to find out more about you
- Help and advice from our UK office before arrival and whilst you are away
- Pre-departure information covering medical, safety and project advice
- Gold level, 24/7 Pharos crisis management and incident support cover
- Financial protection: ATOL (if we book your flights).
- Thorough orientation on arrival
- In-country support
- Accommodation (see the ‘accommodation’ section above for details)
- Advice on visa requirements
- Oyster plants a tree in Africa with TreeAid to help reduce the impact of global carbon emissions
- Local group coordinator and support team throughout your arrival weekWelcome dinner and social evening
- 7 nights shared accommodation
- Guided Auckland city walking tour
- Auckland nightlife experience and guided social evening
- 4-day Far North surf and coastal adventure
- Multiple guided surf sessions suitable for beginner to intermediate surfers
- Scenic coastal road trips and beach exploration
- Visit Cape Reinga at the northernmost tip of New Zealand
- Sandboarding experience at the Te Paki sand dunes
- Sunrise surf session
- Free time to relax and enjoy New Zealand’s stunning beaches and coastal towns
- Comprehensive New Zealand orientation and working holiday support
- Assistance with IRD number setup
- Bank account setup assistance
- SIM card setup support
- Job guidance and access to exclusive online job resources
- CV and job search assistance
- 12 months ongoing job support and access to recruitment services
- Ongoing travel advice and support throughout your stay in New Zealand
Not Included
- Flights – as an ATOL bonded company, Oyster can book flights for you
- You need a valid passport that meets the requirements of the country you will be travelling to
- Insurance (covering your time with Oyster and any planned independent travel)
- Any costs associated with changing your return flight date if you need to
- Independent travel costs
- Home country travel costs
- Spending money for additional trips, food and entertainment
- You must be eligible for Working Holiday visa (age range between 18-35 and of eligible nationality. See here for visa eligibility criteria
- Money to pay for accommodation following the induction course
- Food expenses bar a welcome drinks and some drinks
- Transfer from airport to city
FAQ's
This programme is perfect for those who are looking to challenge themselves and looking for paid jobs abroad, but may need a little support to get the ball rolling. If you are aged between 18-35 then you could potentially work and travel New Zealand! A visa will allow you to live and work in New Zealand for at least one year and enjoy all the amazing opportunities these islands have to offer. If you are from the UK then you can be eligible for up to a 36 months stay.
As a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) holder in New Zealand, you have the flexibility to work throughout the country, giving you the opportunity to experience both urban and rural life while earning money to support your travels. While you’re generally able to work anywhere, the availability and type of work can vary depending on the season, region, and current demand.
Job opportunities commonly fall into several key sectors:
1. Hospitality:
This is one of the most popular sectors for WHV holders, especially in major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and tourist destinations such as Queenstown and Rotorua. Typical roles include:
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Waitstaff and baristas
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Bartenders and kitchenhands
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Hotel and hostel receptionists
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Housekeepers and cleaners
Experience is often preferred but not always necessary, especially in entry-level roles.
2. Construction:
Construction is in high demand across New Zealand due to ongoing infrastructure and housing developments. WHV holders may find work as:
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General laborers
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Traffic controllers
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Site assistants
These roles often pay well and may require a Site Safe card or basic safety training, which can be obtained locally.
3. Warehouse and Logistics:
These jobs are usually located in or near major cities like Auckland and Hamilton. They include:
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Pick-packers
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Forklift operators (with the right license)
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Inventory or dispatch assistants
Work is often shift-based and can provide consistent hours.
4. Agriculture and Horticulture (Seasonal Work):
This includes:
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Fruit picking and packing
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Vineyard work
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Farmhand positions
These roles are particularly available in regions like Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay, and Central Otago and are often seasonal (e.g., during harvest time).
5. Tourism and Outdoor Roles:
In areas with high tourist traffic, you might find opportunities such as:
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Tour guides or activity assistants
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Adventure tourism staff (e.g., rafting, ziplining)
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Ski field roles (e.g., lift operators, instructors)
6. Office and Temporary Admin Work:
For those with office experience and good English proficiency, temp agencies often recruit WHV holders for:
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Reception work
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Data entry
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Customer service roles
Keep in mind that while your visa allows you to work, employers must still follow New Zealand employment laws — including paying at least the minimum wage and providing fair working conditions
On the whole, both the North and South Islands enjoy mainly moderate climates throughout the year. The far north has sub-tropical weather during summer months and the inland alpine areas of the South Island can be as cold as -10c in winter. Given that you are never that far from the coast, most of the country experiences mild temperatures, moderate rainfall and an abundance of sunshine. Summer is December to February and the coldest months are from June to August.
Auckland is one of the most affordable cities in the world and although city life can be expensive, you will tend to earn more per hour on the minimum wage than anywhere in Europe. As New Zealand is made up of islands, some things need to be imported and therefore will cost more. We recommend you save about £2000 to be safe. You will be earning, however it is always good to have emergency funds and be able to pay for accommodation following your induction week. Visa requirements state that you must have $350 (New Zealand Dollars) available for each month of your stay in NZ to support living costs.
The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa scheme gives British people between the ages of 18 and 35 the opportunity to travel to New Zealand and work during this time to fund their travels. A 36 month visa is guaranteed for British citizens providing there are no legal issues during the first 12 months.
In order to be eligible, you must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months after your arrival, be of the correct age, have no dependent children, hold a return ticket or funds to purchase one, meet health and character requirements and have not been approved a visa or permit in the past.
For other nationalities, you must be from one of the following countries who have agreements with the New Zealand government:
Argentina Working Holiday Visa
Hong Kong Working Holiday Visa
Lithuania Working Holiday Visa
Luxembourg Working Holiday Visa
Netherlands Working Holiday Visa
Philippines Working Holiday Visa
Singapore Working Holiday Visa
United Kingdom Working Holiday Visa
Visas are approximately NZD $455 and guidance is usually 3 weeks minimal in normal processing times.
You can absolutely apply with a friend and complete the induction week together. We cannot however guarantee that you will find a job together. If you do travel with a friend you can organise to live in the same apartment. Many people apply solo and meet like-minded friends on the programme so don’t worry, you won’t be the only one!
Group sizes vary but expect to be within 5-15 other travellers.
There are limited spaces for each week so it is best to book as far in advance as you can commit to. We generally say a minimum of booking 2 months in advance but we will always check for last minute availability. September and October can be very popular and again in January so if you are thinking about these dates then prepare to book about 4-6 months in advance.
New Zealand is one of the most unspoilt countries on earth with one third of the land mass designated as national park. Tourism is its number one industry and there is so much to do from bungee jumping to hiking in the mountains or simply enjoying life in lively Auckland.
This programme offers the opportunity not only to travel, but to live and work as a Kiwi. This is a chance to experience the real New Zealand by earning money and then enjoying it! It is a great way to enhance your CV with interesting work experience for when you return home. An excellent chance to either take a career break from ‘real life’ or help develop your independence before ‘real life’ begins!
New Zealand is a splendid place to start for those who haven’t done much travelling as it is a safe, English-speaking country. Our support team will always be on hand to help you if you get stuck so you will never feel alone. Job presentations cover topics such as facts and figures relating to the job market, how to build an effective CV, tips on finding great jobs and how to conduct yourself during an interview.
Make life long friends from around the world and create memories that will stay with you forever.
Most participants will have a job organised within the first 2-3 weeks of their arrival in Auckland. You can chose to stay on at the hostel or move straight out to a new apartment with your new friends following the induction week.
You do not have to commit to working in Auckland and are free to explore further afield and live and work somewhere else on the North or South Island. Whatever your decision, be rest-assured that you will have the full support of our in-country team.
It is impossible for our team to 100% guarantee you work as a large part of the process involves you to be pro-active, flexible and committed, however with dedicated support, training, consultations and help with your CV, you will definitely be in the perfect position. The team will help you with your interview techniques and work out which sort of job suits you best using access to an exclusive job finding database. Most people find work within 2-3 weeks of arriving in the country.
You can stay in the same job for up to 12 months – this is a limitation of your visa. Some contracts will be as short as just a few months.
You will have access to the job finding database and will have full job finding support for up to 12 months. British citizens can work with one employer for the entire stay and extend to 36months.
Please visit your doctor or travel nurse to find out. It is unlikely that you will need anything in addition to your routine vaccinations, which should be up to date.
New Zealand is fairly small so you are never far from a hospital. Auckland City Hospital and the Bay of Islands Hospital are the two closest to where you will be located during your orientation week.
New Zealand alongside Denmark is considered the least corrupt country in the world. It is an extremely safe place with low crime rates. As when travelling in any country, it pays to keep your wits about you. Be sure to make use of safes to lock away your valuables and keep an eye on your luggage and personal belongings at all times.
Unlimited.
New Zealand is 12 hours ahead of GMT (GMT/UTC + 12). Please note New Zealand practices daylight savings so it is +13 during some months of the year.
In New Zealand the power sockets are of type I. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Auckland has so much to offer that it is impossible to list it all here.
- Enjoy a coastal walk past the volcano cone of Mt Eden and One Tree hill. Visit the Auckland museum and Art Gallery, both of which are free to enter.
- A pub crawl is always a great way to meet new people and why not enjoy a free backpacker tour giving you advice on the top sites, eateries and parties in the local area. Watch a free movie in the park, walk to Silo park or take a ferry trip to visit the picturesque town of Devonport.
- Some of New Zealand’s highlights as a whole include the glaciers and mountain walks of Milford Sound, Tongariro National Park, Bay of Islands, Lake Wanaka,
- The Hobbiton Movie set and Waiheke Island. You are never far from the coast so there is always the option of a fantastic beach somewhere on your travels.
Project Reviews
“Oyster have been amazing to me. Originally I had planned to go to Whistler for a ski season however, my Visa didn’t arrive in time. I was able to transfer to one of Oyster’s New Zealand programmes and I’m having a fantastic time so far. Sami and Georgie were so helpful when helping me sort everything out. If you...
Would you like to chat to Sami, who manages this programme? Just call +44 1892 771 976or email: – [email protected].
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