Work in New Zealand as a Plumber, Gasfitter, or Drainlayer
Is it your dream to work as a Plumber in New Zealand? Think about making a career in the plumbing industry in New Zealand. The shortage of qualified plumbers, gasfitters, and drainlayers in New Zealand provides excellent career prospects.
If you plan to move to New Zealand then talk to our team of licensed advisers will guide you through documentation, registration with Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) of New Zealand, jobs search assistance, visa/ immigration matters, and help you settle down in New Zealand with your family.
Plumber, Gasfitter, or Drainlayer
Salaries and Demand in NZ
Plumber, Gasfitter and Drainlayer in New Zealand earn between NZD$28 and $42 per hour depending on experience, location, and specialisation.
From
NZD$28
To
NZD$42
simple process
Visa Options for Dentists
As a dentist, you may qualify for:
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) if you have a job offer
- Requires job offer from an accredited NZ employer.
Green List Straight to Residence Visa for eligible roles
- Requires job offer from an accredited NZ employer.
Work to Residence Visa under the Green List
What do plumbers do?
Plumbers work in three main areas: General Plumbing, Gas Fitting, Drain Laying.
A plumber installs and/or repairs water, drains, gas and sewer systems be it a residential, commercial or industrial setting. There is a wide range of work that a plumber does, depending on what area they specialise in.
According to the Australia/New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations, tasks may include:
studying blueprints, drawings and specifications to determine the layout of plumbing systems and materials required
setting out and installing hot and cold water systems and associated equipment
installing water-based fire protections systems, including fire hydrants, hose reels and sprinkler systems
designing and installing sanitary plumbing and water supply systems, discharge pipes and sanitary fixtures
fabricating and installing soil and waste stacks
assembling and installing mechanical services plant, air handling and conditioning equipment and small bore heating systems
installing sewerage and effluent pumping equipment and disposal systems
installing below-ground drainage systems and associated ground support systems
installing gas appliances, flues and pressure regulating devices
fabricating and installing metal roofing, rainwater goods and flashings
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Career paths
Once you gain experience in this field, you can work independently as a plumber, become a contractor, join a company or run your own business (you need to be on an open work visa or a resident to work as a contractor or be self-employed). As a resident, be your own boss and work independently; provide plumbing services to a range of residential & commercial premises.
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A need for plumbers nationwide
Plumbers are a shortage everywhere in New Zealand. You could be contributing to the Christchurch rebuild, plumbing, gas fitting or drain laying at million-dollar residences in Auckland, or setting up a beachfront hotel on the New Zealand shores.
You may initially be working under a senior plumber’s supervision in New Zealand and with experience you can move up to higher-level roles like as project manager or supervising others, passing on your knowledge and skills to apprentices. You may also work as a contractor if your visa allows you to do so.
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Construction sector
With a very dynamic construction and infrastructure sector in New Zealand, there will be a continued need for plumbing professionals.
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Moving as a Plumber, Gasfitter, or Drainlayer
Competency and registration requirements
Do you have what it takes to be a plumber, gasfitter, or drainlayer in New Zealand?
According to ANZSCO, a plumber requires the equivalent of a NZ Register Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3), or at least three years of relevant experience. In New Zealand, the PGDB is responsible for assessing overseas plumbing qualifications and managing registration. You may apply directly with https://www.pgdb.co.nz
Occupational Registration
Plumbers need to be registered with the PGDB (Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board). This board sets minimum standards, regulates and promotes safety for all New Zealanders by ensuring the competence of all plumbing professionals.
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New Zealand Shores has helped thousands of migrants secure their visas and build a future in New Zealand. With licensed advisers and tailored guidance, we make your journey to New Zealand simple and stress-free.
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