Chef Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Looking for chef jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship? The hospitality industry in New Zealand is booming, offering exciting opportunities for skilled chefs worldwide. 

With visa sponsorship options available, foreigners can now explore a rewarding career while experiencing New Zealand’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. 

This guide covers the eligibility for chef jobs in New Zealand, highlights top restaurants and food businesses offering visa sponsorship, and provides application links to start your culinary adventure today!

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Chef Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

To be eligible for chef jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, applicants must meet the following detailed criteria:

• Qualifications: Applicants must hold a recognized culinary qualification, typically a Level 4 or higher National Certificate in Cookery or equivalent, or a diploma or degree in professional cookery.
• Work Experience: A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant work experience in a professional kitchen or restaurant setting is required. Experience in fine dining, international cuisines, or specialized culinary roles is preferred. Work experience should demonstrate the ability to manage kitchen operations.
• English Proficiency: Since New Zealand’s primary language is English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), with a minimum band score (usually 6.0 or higher), or other recognized tests like TOEFL.
• Age Limit: Most work visas for chefs are available to individuals under 55 years of age. This is part of New Zealand’s general immigration policy to encourage a younger workforce.
• Health & Character Requirements: Applicants must pass a medical examination and a police clearance certificate from their home country. This ensures that the applicant is in good health and has no criminal record.
• Job Offer: A confirmed job offer from a New Zealand employer is crucial. The employer must be accredited by New Zealand Immigration and must prove that the position was advertised locally without finding a suitable New Zealand resident or citizen. 
• Visa Application: The employer must submit the necessary documents to support the visa application, including proof of sponsorship.
• Salary & Employment Conditions: The salary must meet New Zealand’s minimum wage requirements and reflect industry standards for the role. For chefs, this falls within a range of NZD 45,000 to 65,000 annually, depending on the role, location, and experience.
• Permanent Residency Pathways: For those who work in New Zealand for a few years, there may be opportunities to apply for permanent residency under the Skilled Migrant Category if they continue to meet employment and visa criteria. 

How to Find and Apply for Chef Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Here’s a step-by-step guide for finding and applying for chef roles offering visa sponsorship in New Zealand:

Step 1: Research the Job Market and Visa Options

Start by exploring New Zealand’s hospitality industry to understand the demand for chefs and specific roles such as sous chef, pastry chef, or head chef. 

Visit the New Zealand Immigration website to familiarize yourself with visa options like the Accredited Employer Work Visa or Skilled Migrant Category. Identify regions with high demand for chefs, such as Auckland, Wellington, or Queenstown.

Step 2: Update Your Resume and Portfolio

Prepare a professional resume tailored to the culinary industry. Highlight your qualifications, work experience, and specialized skills, such as expertise in international cuisines or bakery arts. 

Additionally, create a portfolio showcasing your best dishes, menu designs, and any awards or customer reviews that demonstrate your skills.

Step 3: Search for Job Opportunities

Use platforms like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, or Careers.govt.nz to search for chef roles offering visa sponsorship. 

Explore career pages of popular hotels, resorts, and restaurant chains in New Zealand. Networking is valuable—join culinary groups on LinkedIn or social media and connect with industry professionals who might know of openings.

Step 4: Apply for Jobs

Submit tailored applications to each job. Include your resume, cover letter, and portfolio. Emphasize your culinary expertise, adaptability, and willingness to relocate. 

Mention your need for visa sponsorship and reassure the employer of your readiness to meet immigration requirements.

Step 5: Prepare for Interviews

If you’re shortlisted, research the employer and their menu. Be prepared to discuss your culinary background, signature dishes, and how you adapt to new work environments.

Employers value enthusiasm, so express your eagerness to contribute to their team while adhering to New Zealand’s food safety and workplace standards.

Step 6: Secure a Job Offer

When offered a position, review the terms carefully, including salary, working hours, and visa sponsorship details. Ensure your prospective employer is accredited by New Zealand Immigration to sponsor work visas, as this is a critical requirement.

Step 7: Apply for Your Work Visa

Collaborate with your employer to gather required documents, such as your job offer letter, qualifications, proof of work experience, and medical or police clearance certificates. 

Submit your visa application through the New Zealand Immigration portal and pay the applicable fees.

Step 8: Plan Your Relocation

Once your visa is approved, plan your move. Secure housing near your workplace, familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s culture and prepare for your new role. Double-check your travel documents and confirm your start date with your employer.

Step 9: Begin Your Culinary Career in New Zealand

Upon arrival, complete any onboarding or training required by your employer. Immerse yourself in the work environment, embrace local culinary trends, and build relationships with colleagues. 

Top Restuarants and Food Businesses Offering Chef Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

New Zealand boasts a thriving hospitality industry and several prominent businesses offer chef positions with visa sponsorship opportunities for foreign workers. 

Here are some notable establishments:

Millennium Hotels and Resorts

Millennium Hotels operates luxury accommodations across New Zealand, including major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown.

Millennium Hotels actively supports visa sponsorship for skilled chefs, especially those with experience in fine dining or large-scale catering. They offer relocation assistance and career development programs.

Candidates must have formal culinary qualifications and a minimum of two years of experience in similar roles. Strong knowledge of food safety standards is essential.

How to Apply: Visit the Millennium Hotels’ Careers Page to browse openings and submit applications.

Republic Hospitality Group

Located in Queenstown, Republic Hospitality Group manages multiple popular venues, including bars, cafes, and restaurants. The group emphasizes teamwork and innovation in delivering exceptional guest experiences.

They actively seek international chefs, providing visa sponsorship and housing assistance for foreign workers. Positions range from commis chefs to head chefs.

Preference is given to candidates with at least three years of experience in high-pressure kitchen environments and familiarity with New Zealand cuisine.

How to Apply: Job openings are regularly posted on their Work with Us page.

LSG Sky Chefs

A global leader in airline catering, LSG Sky Chefs has operations in New Zealand, providing meals to major airlines.

They hire production chefs for large-scale food preparation and offer visa sponsorship as part of their relocation assistance. This role is ideal for chefs with experience in bulk food production.

How to Apply: Openings are regularly advertised on the LSG’s Career website.

Rosewood Hotel Group

Located in Northland, Rosewood Hotels focus on luxury accommodations and fine dining experiences. They are part of a global chain that prioritizes innovation in cuisine.

Rosewood offers visa sponsorship for foreign workers. They are interested in skilled pastry chefs with unique culinary expertise. Applicants must have a relevant qualification in cookery or pastry and demonstrate exceptional skills in preparing artisanal desserts or baked goods.

How to Apply: Check their Careers Page for openings.

Maestro Group Limited

A renowned company in Auckland specializing in Italian and European cuisine, Maestro Group operates high-end restaurants catering to discerning diners.

Visa sponsorship is available for roles like Chef de Partie, particularly for candidates with experience in Italian or Mediterranean dishes. Applicants need expertise in Italian or European cuisine and the ability to handle a fast-paced kitchen environment.

How to Apply: Open positions are posted on the Maestro Job’s page.

The Average Salary for Chef Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

Chef salaries in New Zealand reflect a mix of factors, including location, experience, job role, and industry. 

Here’s an overview:

National Averages (in NZD)

• Hourly Wage: Chefs earn an average of NZD 26.95 per hour, ranging from NZD 21 for entry-level roles to NZD 31 for senior positions​.
• Annual Salary: The average annual income is approximately NZD 51,744, with entry-level salaries starting near NZD 50,640, while experienced chefs earn up to NZD 73,000​.

Salaries by Region

Certain regions offer higher wages due to increased demand and cost of living:

• Manukau, Auckland: The highest-paying region, offering up to NZD 1,489 weekly, significantly above the national average.
• Auckland City: Salaries range from NZD 1,055 to NZD 1,111 per week, slightly above the national median.
• Wellington: Average weekly salary is NZD 1,050, slightly below the national average.
• Christchurch City: Weekly salaries are around NZD 1,033, catering to regional standards​.

Salaries by Employment Type and Experience

• Head Chefs: Typically earn between NZD 60,000 and NZD 80,000 annually, depending on the establishment’s scale and reputation.
• Sous Chefs: Average annual salaries range from NZD 55,000 to NZD 65,000, with opportunities for bonuses in fine-dining settings.
• Pastry Chefs: Specialists in baked goods and desserts can expect to earn NZD 50,000 to NZD 70,000, depending on experience and location​.
• Entry-Level Chefs: Those new to the industry earn around NZD 42,000 to NZD 50,000 annually, often working in fast-paced casual dining establishments​.

Salaries by Industry

• Fine Dining and Luxury Hotels: Chefs in these settings earn the highest wages, often supplemented by bonuses and profit-sharing. Salaries can exceed NZD 75,000 per year for senior roles.
• Casual Dining and Cafés: Offer lower pay, with chefs earning around NZD 20 to NZD 25 per hour, depending on the location.
• Corporate Catering and Airline Catering: Positions in companies like LSG Sky Chefs offer salaries around NZD 50,000 to NZD 65,000, with additional perks like visa sponsorship and relocation support​.

Bonuses and Incentives

Approximately 56% of chefs report receiving bonuses, typically ranging from 3% to 6% of their annual salary. These bonuses are performance-based and more common in fine-dining and high-end hospitality establishments​.

What Influences Salary Growth?

• Experience Level: Salaries grow significantly with experience, especially for roles requiring leadership or specialized skills.
• Location: Cities like Auckland and Queenstown offer higher pay due to demand and cost of living.
• Culinary Expertise: Chefs skilled in international cuisines or niche areas like molecular gastronomy command premium pay.

Benefits of Chef Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

New Zealand offers an array of benefits for chefs, especially those employed under visa sponsorship programs. 

Here are the key advantages:

Visa Sponsorship and Relocation Assistance

Chefs seeking employment in New Zealand often benefit from visa sponsorship provided by employers, which simplifies the immigration process. 

Employers typically cover visa application fees and assist in securing the necessary documentation. Relocation packages often include airfare, temporary housing, and help with finding permanent accommodation, making the transition smoother for international hires.

Competitive Salaries and Financial Incentives

New Zealand offers attractive salary packages for chefs, with an average hourly wage of NZD 26.95 and annual earnings between NZD 50,000 and NZD 73,000, depending on experience and location. 

Fine-dining establishments and luxury hotels often provide bonuses, profit-sharing options, and incentives, ensuring competitive remuneration.

Career Development Opportunities

Working in New Zealand allows chefs to expand their culinary expertise, particularly in Pacific Rim and sustainable cuisines. 

Many employers offer professional development programs, including advanced training, certifications, and mentorship to help chefs excel in their careers.

Work-Life Balance

New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional quality of life, offering a relaxed lifestyle and opportunities for leisure activities. 

Employers in the hospitality sector often prioritize work-life balance through flexible schedules and paid time off, allowing chefs to enjoy the country’s scenic beauty and vibrant cultural life.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Chef roles are frequently listed on New Zealand’s skills shortage list, providing an avenue for visa-sponsored workers to apply for permanent residency. 

This pathway offers long-term stability for employees and their families, including sponsorship options for dependents to live and work in New Zealand.

Additional Perks

Many employers provide free meals during shifts, uniforms, and employee discounts on dining and accommodation at affiliated establishments. 

Some companies include health insurance, gym memberships, and wellness programs as part of their benefits package, further enhancing the value of these roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Chef Makes the Most Money in New Zealand?

Head chefs and executive chefs in high-end establishments like luxury hotels and fine-dining restaurants earn the most, often exceeding NZD 75,000 annually, with additional bonuses and perks.

How Much Do Kitchen Workers Make in New Zealand?

Kitchen workers, such as kitchen hands or assistants, typically earn between NZD 20 and NZD 25 per hour, depending on experience and location.

How Much Do Food Packing Jobs Pay in New Zealand?

Food packing jobs pay around NZD 21 to NZD 25 per hour, depending on the employer and region, with opportunities for overtime pay.

Which Degree Is Best for a Chef in New Zealand?

A Certificate or Diploma in Cookery, such as those offered by institutions like NZMA or Toi Ohomai, is ideal. Advanced degrees in culinary arts can enhance career prospects.

What Is the Lowest Salary of a Chef in New Zealand?

Entry-level chefs earn around NZD 50,640 annually, or NZD 21 to NZD 23 per hour, which is the minimum range for culinary roles in the country.