Unlock New Opportunities for New Zealand Teaching Jobs

Learn how to migrate and teach in New Zealand across early childhood,
primary, and secondary levels. Teachers are in high demand and included on the Green List.

A Teacher, or kura is a professional educator who plans, prepares and presents classes in a wide range of subjects in line with the New Zealand curriculum across several age groups in state and integrated schools throughout New Zealand. Teachers play a pivotal role in our society, they teach the NZ curriculum in centres & schools in a holistic manner, as the educator also provides valuable insights in morals, values, social etiquette and communication.

There is a need of well-qualified, adaptable, and dynamic teachers in New Zealand. If you wish to influence the lives of children and get satisfaction by contributing to your community with a passion, then New Zealand is the perfect place to expand your career.

Our team of Immigration professionals can guide you step by step in the process of obtaining registration with the Teaching Council of New Zealand. We can also help with job search, and will provide detailed instructions on documentation, visa/ immigration matters.

Keep reading to understand a Teacher’s role

Role

Working conditions

Career opportunities

Income and employment prospects

Skills and knowledge required

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Why New Zealand Needs Teachers?

New Zealand has a strong demand for early childhood, primary, and secondary teachers across the country. These roles are included on the Green List, offering a clear path to residence.

Teacher Salaries and Demand in NZ

Qualified teachers in New Zealand typically earn between NZD$70,000–$100,000 per year, depending on role, experience, and location. There’s strong demand across early childhood, primary, and secondary levels — especially in regional and rural areas.

From

NZD$70,000

To

NZD$100,000

New Zealand Teacher Visa Options

As a teacher, you may qualify for an Accredited Employer Work visa, or residency under the Green List or the Skilled Migrant Category.

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simple process

Visa Options for Teachers

As a teacher, you may qualify for:

AEWV if you have a job offer from an NZ-registered school

Straight to Residence Visa (Green List) — available for qualified teachers

Work to Residence Visa — after 2 years in an eligible teaching role

Registration Requirements for Teachers

Teaching is a regulated profession in New Zealand. To be eligible to work as a teacher, you must:

Hold a recognised teaching qualification

Be registered with the Teaching Council of New Zealand

Meet English language and character requirements

your pathway to residence

From Teaching to Residence

Working as a teacher in New Zealand can help you access fast-track residence pathways, particularly if your role is on the Green List. With local teaching experience and registration, you may qualify for the Straight to Residence or Work to Residence visa categories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Start Your Teaching Journey in
New Zealand?

Talk to a licensed adviser to understand your visa options and registration steps.
Free Eligibility Assessment

University of Waikato disclaimer

I acknowledge that the University of Waikato is not, and will not be, liable for any costs, losses, damages, or liability incurred by me or any other party in connection with the services provided by New Zealand Shores limited.

Furthermore, the University of Waikato makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of information and or services provided by New Zealand Shores Limited.