Housekeeping and Cleaning Jobs in New Zealand with Visa 2025
Housekeeping and Cleaning Jobs in New Zealand with Visa 2025
Housekeeping and Cleaning Jobs in New Zealand with Visa 2025 New Zealand’s housekeeping and cleaning sector is experiencing significant growth in 2025, with a 97% increase in available positions over the last three months1. The market currently offers over 1,040 vacancies across the country7, presenting substantial opportunities for both domestic and international workers seeking employment in this field.
Overview of Opportunities
In 2025, cleaning jobs in New Zealand offer a golden opportunity for foreigners with work visas. As the demand for housekeeping, janitorial, and office cleaning services continues to rise, employers are keen to hire skilled professionals from abroad.1
Available Positions
Current job openings include:
- Housekeeping supervisors in hotels (e.g., Ramada Remarkables Park and Wyndham Garden Queenstown)2
- Cleaning team members at Auckland Airport2
- Room attendants at beachside resorts3
- Commercial and office cleaners
- Hospital and healthcare facility cleaners
- Hotel housekeepers
Salary Information
It costs $48,750 a year, or $25 an hour, to be a cleaner in New Zealand. Jobs for new graduates start at $44,363 a year, and most experienced workers make up to $58,100 a year.4
Some positions report competitive salary ranging from $2,500.00 to $7,500.00 per month, with potential performance-based bonuses5, though this higher range should be verified with specific employers.
Visa Sponsorship Process
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The main pathway for obtaining work visa sponsorship is through the Accredited Employer Work Visa if you have a job offer from an accredited employer. The employer must send you a link to the online application form.6
Key Requirements (as of March 2025)
- From 10 March 2025, migrant candidates need to demonstrate 2 years of relevant work experience, instead of 3 years7
- Wages must meet or exceed the New Zealand minimum wage (which is NZD $23.50 as of April 1, 2025) and align with the market rate for the role8
- English language proficiency
- Health and character requirements
Visa Duration
- From 10 March 2025, AEWV holders in ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 roles began receiving 3-year visas7
- Stay in New Zealand for up to 5 years — depending on your job, skill level, how much you are paid6
Benefits Often Included
- Many companies in New Zealand will sponsor foreign workers’ visas, which makes moving easier4
- Visa sponsorship for successful candidates5, health and dental coverage5
- Some positions often come with additional benefits like accommodation and meals1
- Opportunities for professional growth
Types of Housekeeping Positions Available
Hotel and Resort Housekeeping
The tourism sector offers the most abundant opportunities, with roles including Room Attendants, Housekeeping Supervisors, and Executive Housekeeping Managers49. These positions typically require a minimum of one year of hotel housekeeping experience4 and offer competitive hourly rates between $25-30 per hour4. Hotels often provide additional benefits such as staff meals, training and development opportunities, and discounts on private health insurance4.
Commercial Housekeeping
Commercial cleaning positions in offices, schools, and healthcare facilities represent another significant employment category922. These roles may offer full-time, part-time, or casual arrangements with flexible scheduling options. Some positions specifically mention visa sponsorship availability for qualified candidates36.
Residential and Aged Care Facilities
Retirement villages and aged care facilities, such as those operated by Ryman Healthcare, regularly recruit housekeeping staff19. These positions emphasize enhancing resident experiences through cleanliness expertise and often include benefits like weekend pay rates with an additional 40% hourly premium, annual salary reviews, and employee discount programs1.
Accommodation Exchange Programs
Many hostels, lodges, and backpacker accommodations offer live-in positions where workers provide housekeeping services in exchange for accommodation, typically requiring 9-12 hours of work weekly320. These arrangements are particularly popular with working holiday visa holders seeking to minimize living expenses while exploring New Zealand.
Key Benefits and Working Conditions
Housekeeping positions in New Zealand commonly include weekend premium rates of an additional 40% on the hourly wage1, making weekend shifts particularly attractive. Many employers offer comprehensive benefits packages including paid training and development, career progression opportunities, discounts from various suppliers, and employee assistance programs14.
Work-life balance is emphasized across the sector, with flexible roster arrangements and options for part-time or casual employment alongside full-time positions47. The hospitality industry particularly values creating supportive team cultures where employees feel valued and have opportunities for skill development1.
Regional Opportunities
While Auckland dominates the job market, regional areas offer unique opportunities. Queenstown and the surrounding Otago region feature numerous positions in luxury resorts and hotels422. The Bay of Islands, Lake Tekapo, and Franz Josef Glacier areas seek housekeeping staff willing to work in scenic tourist destinations320. These regional positions often include accommodation options and provide immersive experiences in New Zealand’s most beautiful locations.
Pathways to Permanent Residence
Housekeeping work can lead to permanent residence for workers under 55 years old10. After working in New Zealand for two years on an appropriate work visa, employees may apply for a resident visa10. The Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa, which requires a job paying at least $79,560 per year, allows application for residence after two years10. While entry-level housekeeping positions typically don’t meet this salary threshold, progression to supervisory or management roles can open pathways to permanent residence.
Application Strategy
To successfully secure housekeeping employment with visa sponsorship, applicants should target accredited employers advertising positions that explicitly mention visa sponsorship availability36. Applications submitted through the Immigration New Zealand portal emphasize digital submission and transparency, ensuring smoother processing2. From mid-2025, a new Job Check process will streamline applications for low-risk employers, improving processing timeframes
How To Apply
Apply Now
Conclusion
Housekeeping and cleaning jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship represent a viable pathway for international workers seeking to build a new life in 2025. These positions offer a gateway for unskilled or inexperienced immigrants, providing stable income, career growth possibilities, and the chance to adapt to life in New Zealand, a country known for its welcoming attitude towards foreign workers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What type of visa do I need for cleaning jobs in New Zealand?
The most common visa options for cleaning job applicants are the Essential Skills Work Visa and the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). These visas allow employers to hire foreign workers in roles that are in demand in New Zealand.1 You can apply for the AEWV if you have a job offer from an accredited employer. The employer must send you a link to the online application form.2
2. How long can I stay in New Zealand with a cleaning job visa?
The AEWV lets you stay in New Zealand from 7 months to 5 years — depending on your job, skill level, how much you are paid and when you applied for your visa.2 The visa is valid up to 3 years with renewal options.1
3. What are the basic requirements for getting a cleaning job visa?
Essential requirements include:
- Valid job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer and Certificate of Employment/Contract issued by the sponsoring company1
- Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and minimum age of 18 years old1
- Health requirements: Medical exam and chest X-ray if staying over 6 months1
- Character requirements: Police clearance certificate from your home country1
- English language skills: Basic communication level1
4. Do I need work experience to get a cleaning job in New Zealand?
From 10 March 2025, migrant candidates need to demonstrate 2 years of relevant work experience, instead of the previous 3 years requirement. However, many positions don’t need a fancy degree or years of experience. You need dedication, a willingness to work hard, and a positive attitude.1
5. How much can I earn in cleaning jobs in New Zealand?
Although competent cleaners in commercial settings can make up to NZD 28 per hour, the typical hourly rate is between NZD 17 and NZD 23.1 Annual salaries typically range from $44,363 for entry-level positions to $58,100 for experienced workers.
