Customer Service Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Customer service jobs in New Zealand offer excellent opportunities for foreign workers with many companies offering visa sponsorship. 

With the demand for skilled customer service representatives growing, foreigners can find roles in industries like retail, telecommunications, and hospitality. 

This guide covers the eligibility for customer service jobs, highlights top companies offering visa sponsorship, and provides helpful links to start your job application process and adventure in New Zealand.

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

Here are the eligibility criteria and requirements to help you qualify for customer service jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship:

• Valid Work Visa: To work in New Zealand as a foreigner in a customer service role, you need to secure a valid work visa, such as the Essential Skills Work Visa, typically offered by employers willing to sponsor foreign workers for roles that cannot be filled by New Zealand citizens or residents​.
• Relevant Experience and Skills: Employers generally seek candidates with prior experience in customer service, particularly in retail, hospitality, telecommunications, or other client-facing roles. Strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as familiarity with customer service software or systems, may be required​.
• English Proficiency: Since customer service roles require frequent interaction with customers, proficiency in English is essential. While New Zealand does not always require IELTS, some companies may request a basic language test to ensure effective communication​.
• Health and Character Checks: As part of the visa application process, applicants may need to undergo health checks and provide a police clearance or character certificate to prove they meet the good character requirements​.
• Age Restrictions: While there is no strict age limit for customer service jobs, some visa types (such as the Working Holiday Visa) have age restrictions, typically limiting applicants to those between 18 and 30. Other work visas may not have specific age limitations.​
• Job Offer: You must have a confirmed job offer from a New Zealand-based employer willing to sponsor your visa application. This job offer must be genuine and meet the minimum salary threshold required for the visa​.

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

Here are the steps to find and apply for customer service jobs with visa sponsorship in New Zealand as a foreigner:

Step 1: Research Available Customer Service Jobs

Start by browsing popular New Zealand job platforms like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and Indeed for customer service roles that specify visa sponsorship. Many listings highlight visa sponsorship opportunities.

Additionally, some specialized job boards like Workhere New Zealand cater to foreign job seekers specifically, providing visa sponsorship options​.

Step 2: Verify Employer Visa Sponsorship Eligibility

Confirm that the employer is registered with Immigration New Zealand and eligible to sponsor foreign workers. 

Only accredited employers can issue Essential Skills Work Visas or Talent (Accredited Employer) Visas. These types of visas typically require a full-time, permanent role with a competitive salary. 

Check if the employer mentions visa sponsorship directly in the job description or reach out to the hiring department for clarification​.

Step 3: Prepare a Strong CV and Cover Letter

Create a New Zealand-style CV, which should be clear, concise, and professional. Highlight your customer service experience, including any specific roles in retail, telecommunications, or hospitality. 

Ensure to mention your proficiency with relevant customer support tools (CRM software, point-of-sale systems, etc.). 

Customize your cover letter to the specific company and role, demonstrating your passion for customer service and readiness to relocate. Ensure your contact information is up to date, as many employers will contact you quickly​.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Submit your application via the company’s career portal or directly through job boards like Seek and LinkedIn. Some employers will require specific documents like references or proof of past work experience, so have these prepared. 

If you’re applying through email, make sure to include a well-written subject line (e.g., “Customer Service Application – [Your Name]”) and attach your resume and cover letter​.

Step 5: Secure a Job Offer

After applying, prepare for potential interviews. Many New Zealand employers conduct video interviews, so ensure you have a stable internet connection and are prepared to answer questions about your experience, your motivations for relocating to New Zealand, and your availability. 

Once you receive a job offer, confirm that the employer is willing to provide the necessary documents for the visa sponsorship process​.

Step 6: Apply for a Work Visa

Once you have a confirmed job offer, the next step is to apply for the appropriate work visa. For customer service roles, this is typically the Essential Skills Work Visa, which is granted based on the job offer and employer sponsorship. 

If your employer is accredited, they’ll provide you with the documentation you need to apply, which includes your job offer, salary details, and job description. The visa application is submitted online via Immigration New Zealand’s website​.

Step 7: Complete Health and Character Checks

To process your visa application, you may be required to undergo health checks and submit a police clearance certificate from your home country to meet New Zealand’s character requirements. 

These steps ensure that you don’t have any significant health issues or criminal history that would disqualify you from working in New Zealand​.

Step 8: Wait for Visa Approval

Once your application is submitted, it can take several weeks to a few months to receive approval, depending on the type of visa and your specific circumstances. While waiting, you can track the status of your application through the Immigration New Zealand website. 

Once approved, you will receive your visa and can start preparing for your move to New Zealand​.

Step 9: Plan Your Move and Settle in New Zealand

Once your visa is approved, begin planning your relocation to New Zealand. Consider securing temporary accommodation, arranging flights, and preparing for a cultural adjustment. 

New Zealand offers a range of services to help new residents settle in, such as settlement support and orientation programs for newcomers​.

Top Companies and Agencies Offering Customer Service Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are companies and agencies offering customer service jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship for foreign workers:

Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand, the country’s flagship airline, is a major employer offering numerous customer service roles with visa sponsorship. 

Positions range from customer service agents in airports to call center staff, flight attendants, and customer support roles within their digital channels. 

With a strong emphasis on employee growth and a commitment to creating exceptional customer experiences, Air New Zealand offers comprehensive visa sponsorship for foreign workers. 

The airline provides substantial benefits including health care, travel discounts, and opportunities to work internationally​.

How to Apply: Visit the Air New Zealand Careers page.

The Warehouse Group

The Warehouse Group, one of New Zealand’s largest retail chains, offers a variety of customer service roles across its brands, such as The Warehouse, Warehouse Stationery, and Noel Leeming. 

The company is open to hiring foreign workers for retail sales, customer support, and management positions. Visa sponsorship is available, and the company offers a strong focus on employee training and advancement​.

How to Apply: Apply for positions directly through The Warehouse Careers page.

Spark New Zealand

Spark is one of the country’s leading telecommunications companies, offering a range of customer service roles. They provide visa sponsorship for skilled workers in customer support, retail sales, and call center positions. 

Spark’s commitment to diverse hiring and career development programs makes it an excellent option for foreign workers looking to start their careers in New Zealand​.

How to Apply: Visit Spark’s careers page to view open positions and apply directly.

TIMG NZ

TIMG NZ is a leader in document storage, digital transformation, and logistics services based in Auckland. 

The company offers visa sponsorship for skilled customer service roles that involve managing client relationships, providing top-tier support, and ensuring customer satisfaction across multiple service channels. 

As a foreign worker, you’ll have the opportunity to grow in an innovative environment with diverse career development options in the logistics and technology sectors​

How to Apply: Visit their official careers page for open roles and to submit your application.

Hays Recruitment New Zealand

Hays is a global recruitment agency that offers various customer service roles in New Zealand, including those with visa sponsorship. 

They partner with top New Zealand companies across multiple industries, offering tailored recruitment solutions for foreign workers seeking customer service jobs. 

Hays’ expertise includes sourcing skilled workers for customer service, technical support, and retail positions. They offer guidance on the visa application process and help candidates find roles that match their qualifications​.

How to Apply: Visit the Hays New Zealand careers page.

Adecco New Zealand

Adecco is another leading recruitment agency that provides job placement services across a wide range of industries in New Zealand, including customer service. 

They assist foreign workers in securing visa sponsorship for customer service roles in various sectors such as retail, hospitality, and call centers. 

Adecco’s client base includes both large corporations and small to medium-sized businesses. They support candidates through the visa process and help match their skills with available job openings​.

How to Apply: Explore job opportunities via the Adecco New Zealand site.

Manpower New Zealand

Manpower is a global workforce solutions provider that offers customer service roles with visa sponsorship. Their focus is on connecting skilled foreign workers to companies in New Zealand looking for customer support professionals. 

They work with employers across a variety of industries and assist candidates with obtaining the necessary work permits or visa sponsorship. 

How to Apply: Visit the Manpower New Zealand website for more details and to apply for available positions.

Randstad New Zealand

Randstad is a global recruitment agency that provides staffing services across multiple sectors. They specialize in placing foreign workers in New Zealand and offer visa sponsorship for customer service positions in sectors like retail, healthcare, and technology. 

Randstad helps with the visa process and works closely with both job seekers and employers to ensure a seamless transition into the New Zealand workforce​.

How to Apply: Visit Randstad New Zealand’s careers page to find available jobs.

The Average Salary for Customer Service Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

Here’s a breakdown of customer service salaries in New Zealand, factoring in various locations, industries, experience levels, and other factors:

National Average Salary

The national average salary for customer service jobs in New Zealand ranges from NZD 21 to NZD 26 per hour, or approximately NZD 44,000 to NZD 55,000 annually. This pay scale is influenced by factors such as the type of role, the company’s size, and job responsibilities. 

Larger cities like Auckland offer higher pay to offset the increased cost of living, with some positions in the city offering salaries that can go beyond the national average. 

By Experience Level

• Entry-Level (less than 1 year of experience): NZD 18 – NZD 22/hour (NZD 37,000 – NZD 45,000/year). Entry-level roles often include customer support representatives or junior roles in retail and call centers​.
• Mid-Level (1-5 years of experience): NZD 23 – NZD 28/hour (NZD 48,000 – NZD 58,000/year). At this level, employees often take on more responsibilities, such as leading teams or managing larger client accounts.
• Senior-Level (5+ years of experience): NZD 28 – NZD 35/hour (NZD 58,000 – NZD 70,000/year). Senior positions include customer service managers, team leaders, or specialists handling high-value clients​.

By Location

• Auckland: The highest salaries are in Auckland, where the cost of living is higher. The hourly rate is NZD 23 – NZD 30 and the annual salary is NZD 48,000 – NZD 65,000. Auckland is the business hub of New Zealand, offering more corporate jobs that require customer service skills​.
• Wellington: Slightly lower than Auckland but still offering good wages. The hourly rate is NZD 22 – NZD 28 while the annual Salary is NZD 45,000 – NZD 60,000.
• Christchurch: Pay tends to be lower in Christchurch due to a more affordable cost of living. The hourly rate is NZD 20 – NZD 26 while the annual salary is NZD 42,000 – NZD 55,000.
• Other Regions (Smaller towns and rural areas): The hourly rate is NZD 18 – NZD 22 and the annual salary is NZD 37,000 – NZD 48,000. These areas may offer lower salaries due to fewer job opportunities and a lower cost of living​.

By Industry

• Retail: The hourly rate is NZD 20 – NZD 25 while the annual salary is NZD 42,000 – NZD 52,000. Retail customer service roles in both high-end stores and supermarket chains are available, with higher salaries at retail management levels​.
• Call Centers: The hourly rate is NZD 20 – NZD 24 and the annual salary is NZD 42,000 – NZD 50,000. Call center jobs range from inbound customer service representatives to technical support agents​.
• Healthcare & Technical Support: The hourly rate is NZD 25 – NZD 30 and the annual salary is NZD 52,000 – NZD 65,000. Jobs that require technical expertise, such as IT support or medical customer service, offer slightly higher pay​.
• Hospitality (Hotels, Restaurants, etc.): The hourly rate is NZD 20 – NZD 24 and the annual salary is NZD 42,000 – NZD 50,000. These roles often offer additional tips or bonuses depending on performance​.

By Employment Type

• Full-time: NZD 21 – NZD 26/hour (NZD 44,000 – NZD 55,000/year). Full-time employees typically work 40 hours a week and may receive additional benefits like health insurance, paid leave, and retirement contributions​.
• Part-time: NZD 18 – NZD 22/hour. Dependent on the number of hours worked, typically ranging from NZD 30,000 to NZD 40,000 annually​.
• Temporary/Contract: NZD 20 – NZD 26/hour. Similar to part-time pay, temporary contracts can vary based on duration and employer need​.

By Job Division

• Customer Support Representatives: NZD 20 – NZD 25/hour (NZD 42,000 – NZD 52,000/year). Typically involves handling inbound calls, customer inquiries, or troubleshooting basic issues​.
• Customer Service Managers: NZD 28 – NZD 35/hour  (NZD 60,000 – NZD 75,000/year). These roles require leadership skills, managing teams of customer service staff, and dealing with complex customer issues​.
• Technical Support: NZD 25 – NZD 30/hour (NZD 52,000 – NZD 65,000/year). Technical support roles usually require specialized skills in IT, telecommunications, or healthcare​.

Benefits of Customer Service Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the key benefits:

Career Growth Opportunities

Customer service jobs in New Zealand offer excellent opportunities for career progression, especially for those with strong communication and problem-solving skills. 

Starting as a customer service representative, individuals can advance to managerial roles, such as customer service manager or team leader, with experience and additional responsibilities. 

Some companies offer training programs, leadership workshops, and mentorship, helping employees grow in their careers. This is especially true in larger organizations that invest in the professional development of their teams​.

Visa Sponsorship for Foreign Workers

Many companies, especially those facing labor shortages in customer-facing roles, are open to sponsoring work visas for qualified foreign applicants. This allows you to live and work in New Zealand legally, providing a pathway to long-term residency if certain criteria are met. 

This is particularly advantageous for individuals with experience in customer service or those who are fluent in multiple languages​.

Competitive Salaries and Benefits

Customer service jobs in New Zealand are well-compensated, with competitive salaries ranging from NZD 21 to NZD 26 per hour, or NZD 44,000 to NZD 55,000 annually for mid-level positions. 

In addition to competitive pay, many employers offer attractive benefits packages, including health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans. 

Larger companies may provide bonuses, commissions, and additional perks such as discounts on products or services​.

Work-Life Balance

New Zealand is known for its strong work-life balance, and this is reflected in customer service jobs as well. 

Full-time customer service positions generally involve a standard 40-hour work week, with many companies offering flexible working hours or remote working options. This balance allows employees to enjoy a healthy personal life while excelling in their careers. 

Additionally, New Zealand’s stunning natural landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation​.

Diverse Work Environment

New Zealand’s customer service industry is diverse, with many businesses welcoming workers from various cultural backgrounds. This creates an inclusive and welcoming environment where foreign workers can easily integrate and contribute. 

The diversity in the workforce is not only celebrated but also encouraged, making it a great place for individuals who enjoy working with people from different walks of life. 

Furthermore, many companies are open to hiring workers who speak multiple languages, which can be an asset in customer service roles​.

Stable Job Market

The customer service sector in New Zealand is expected to remain a strong part of the economy. This ensures a steady demand for skilled workers in customer service positions across multiple industries, from retail and hospitality to technology and telecommunications. 

With the ongoing demand for customer support professionals, job stability is a significant benefit for foreign workers looking to establish themselves in New Zealand​.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which company pays the highest salary for customer support in New Zealand?

Companies like Xero and Fisher & Paykel are known for offering competitive salaries for customer support roles, especially those involving technical expertise. These companies are known to offer higher-than-average pay, especially for senior or technical customer support positions​.

Is guest service agent the same as receptionist?

While both guest service agents and receptionists work in hospitality settings, their roles differ slightly. A guest service agent generally handles broader guest relations, including bookings, queries, and ensuring customer satisfaction, whereas a receptionist focuses more on administrative tasks such as checking in guests and answering phone calls​.

What skills are needed for customer service roles in New Zealand?

Key skills for customer service roles in New Zealand include effective communication, problem-solving, patience, empathy, and conflict resolution. Familiarity with customer management software, as well as multilingual abilities, can also be beneficial​.

How much do customer service reps make in New Zealand?

Customer service representatives in New Zealand earn between NZD 21 to NZD 26 per hour, translating to an annual salary range of NZD 44,000 to NZD 55,000. This can vary depending on experience and the nature of the industry​.

What call center job pays the most in New Zealand?

The highest-paying call center roles in New Zealand are usually supervisory positions or technical support roles, with salaries ranging from NZD 50,000 to NZD 70,000 annually. These positions require specialized skills or experience in managing teams and handling complex issues​.