15 Excellent Backpacker Jobs

What Jobs Can Backpackers Get in New Zealand?

Armed with a working holiday visa and a desire to fund your travels, you are ready to find a job! Backpackers are able to choose from a variety of jobs in New Zealand. Some land their dream job on the slopes or sailing the seas. Others can experience New Zealand culture through WWOOFing, farm work and au pair.

Build on skills you learned at home (and of course learn new skills) in retail and hospitality. Every job has their perks, so read our TOP list to see why some backpacker jobs are simply excellent.

And remember, we have heaps of advice on how to get a job in New Zealand starting here and we have hundreds of live job listings for backpackers on our Job Listings page.

1. Ski Field Staff

It’s the dream, right? Get a lift pass for free so you can ski or snowboard all season! Find out more at What it is Like to Work on a New Zealand Ski Field.

2. Construction Worker

Make a difference by rebuilding Christchurch! A great way to get one of these jobs in Christchurch is with a recruitment agency. They work closely with construction companies to pair works and jobs as quickly as possible.

3. Au Pair

Be part of the family and gain valuable experience in childcare. Save loads of dollars by working for accommodation.

4. Hospitality

Get socialising by being a waiter/waitress, barista or bartender. Get qualified to be a barista or bartender in New Zealand with Barista Academy in Auckland.

5. Fruit and Veggie Picking

Work as a team and make loads of cash, especially if you are paid per piece, plus, this work will help you extend your working holiday visa. Check out the picking seasons here.

6. Sailor

Being part of a boat crew is an awesome way to explore New Zealand’s waters. There are some work for accommodation opportunities also on sailboats.

7. Farm Work

Be part of a true New Zealand lifestyle. Find out more in Seasonal Work in New Zealand’s Dairy Industry.

8. Hostel Worker

Be the one in charge over your fellow backpackers! It’s also another way to work for accommodation.

9. Tourism Industry Jobs

Be the one pushing people from bridges… (in bungy jumping, obviously). Also, enjoy perks such as free activities and trips!

10. Sheep Shearer

There are so many sheep in New Zealand, we need all the help we can get!

11. DOC Volunteer

Not exactly a job but you give back to New Zealand while staying in beautiful locations. Check out how you can work for the DOC in How to Volunteer for the Department of Conservation of New Zealand.

12. Retail

Learn and develop skills to bring back home with you.

13. WWOOFing

An exchange, rather than working for a wage. Work 3-6 hours a day for food and accommodation, while experiencing an authentic New Zealand lifestyle. More information can be found at Everything You Need to Know About WWOOFing in New Zealand.

14. Movie Extra

Be an extra in New Zealand’s next big blockbuster!

15. Sales and Face-to-face Marketing

If your English is top-notch, the commission will help you get back on the road in no time. We list the 9 Reasons Why Charity Fundraising is an Awesome Backpacker Job.