Working legally in New Zealand
If you are not a New Zealand citizen or do not have New Zealand residency, you must have a valid work permit or work visa to be employed in horticulture and viticulture work in New Zealand.
Seasonal work permits and visas:
The following work permits apply to short-term, seasonal work only - not permanent or long-term positions or career occupations.
- Working Holiday Scheme (WHS)
- Supplementary Seasonal Employer (SSE)
- Variation of Conditions (VOC)
- Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE).
Before you can work in New Zealand you'll also need:
- A bank account
- An understanding of your employment rights and responsibilities
- An IRD number - PickNZ Regional Coordinators can arrange this for you
- A Tax Code Declaration (IR330) from your employer.

Work permits
Working Holiday Sceme (WHS)
Earn yourself a holiday! New Zealand has agreements with 31 countries...
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Supplementary Seasonal Employer (SSE)
There are currently NO SSE places available. SSE work permit applications are not being approved at this time.
Variation of Conditions (VOC)
Visitors already in New Zealand can apply for a 'variation of conditions' to take up seasonal work in the horticulture and viticulture industries...
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Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE)
Employers with RSE status bring groups of temporary workers from overseas to work for up to seven months of the year...
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