Do you dream of starting a new chapter in a scenic, peaceful country with a high quality of life? If so, working as a housekeeper in New Zealand might be the perfect opportunity—especially in 2025, as the country continues to welcome skilled and motivated foreign workers.This guide provides everything you need to know about finding housekeeping jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, including job responsibilities, how to apply, and what life is like working and living in this beautiful country.
Read Also: Visa Sponsorship Unskilled Jobs in New Zealand for Foreigners
Why Consider New Zealand?
New Zealand, known as Aotearoa or “The Land of the Long White Cloud”, is famous for its:
- Stunning natural beauty: From mountains to beaches and everything in between.
- Friendly, inclusive culture: Kiwis are known for being warm, open, and welcoming.
- Work-life balance: Short commutes, laid-back culture, and generous leave policies.
- Safe, clean environment: Ranked among the safest and cleanest countries in the world.
According to New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the demand for workers in hospitality and support services—including housekeeping—is expected to grow steadily through 2025 due to increased tourism and a shortage of local labour.
The Growing Demand for Housekeepers:
The New Zealand tourism and hospitality sectors have bounced back strongly post-COVID. With more international visitors, hotels, lodges, and private rentals are actively seeking reliable and hard-working housekeepers—and many employers are willing to sponsor visas for the right candidates.
As of early 2025, platforms like Seek NZ and WorkHere show a steady flow of open housekeeping positions across the North and South Islands, with a particular concentration in:
- Auckland
- Wellington
- Queenstown
- Rotorua
- Christchurch
What Does a Housekeeper Do?
Housekeeping roles in New Zealand typically involve the following tasks:
Core Responsibilities:
- General cleaning: Vacuuming, dusting, mopping, and sanitising surfaces.
- Room servicing: Making beds, changing linens, and replenishing towels and amenities.
- Laundry assistance: Washing, drying, folding, and ironing.
- Inventory restocking: Ensuring cleaning supplies and guest products are well-stocked.
- Health & safety: Following hygiene standards and safety protocols.
- Guest interaction: Offering friendly, respectful service when interacting with guests or residents.
Housekeepers may work in:
- Hotels and motels
- Resorts and lodges
- Airbnb-style vacation rentals
- Private homes and estates
- Healthcare and aged care facilities
Job Details & Visa Sponsorship:
Position Title: Housekeeper:
Location: Multiple cities and regions across New Zealand
Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Visa Sponsorship: YES – Available with many employers
Salary: Starting at NZD $23/hour (approx. USD $14/hour)
Experience: Preferred but not required
Education: No formal qualifications required
Age Limit: None (must meet visa age and health criteria)
Visa Sponsorship Info:
New Zealand employers offering visa sponsorship typically apply under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. This allows approved employers to bring in foreign workers for jobs they cannot fill locally.
What you’ll need:
- A valid passport
- A job offer from an accredited employer
- Proof of skills/experience (if applicable)
- Police clearance and medical check
- Basic English communication skills
Who’s a Good Fit for This Role?
Ideal candidates for housekeeping jobs are:
- Detail-oriented and tidy
- Able to work independently
- Friendly and respectful in guest interactions
- Willing to work flexible hours (including weekends)
- Able to stand, bend, and lift for extended periods
Even if you’ve never worked as a housekeeper before, a positive attitude, reliability, and work ethic are highly valued by New Zealand employers.
Benefits of Working as a Housekeeper in New Zealand:
Visa sponsorship (saving thousands in fees)
- Full-time contracts with predictable hours
- Pathway to residency in some cases
- Free or subsidized housing (offered by some employers)
- Opportunities to explore New Zealand during your time off
- Experience in an international work setting
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)?
- Prepare your resume (CV)
- Include any cleaning or hospitality experience
- List language skills and certifications
- Highlight reliability, work ethic, and attention to detail
- Search for housekeeping jobs that offer visa sponsorship
- Use trusted sites like:
- Apply to Accredited Employers
- Look for employers listed under the AEWV scheme (you can search this on the NZ Immigration site)
- Attend interviews (via Zoom or phone, if abroad)
- Wait for job offer and sponsorship documentation
- Apply for your visa
Living in New Zealand as a Housekeeper:
Cost of Living: Cities like Auckland and Wellington are more expensive, while smaller towns offer more affordable living. Average rent for a room ranges from NZD $150 to $300/week.
Culture & Diversity: New Zealand is very multicultural, with strong Pacific, Māori, and European influences. You’ll find support networks for newcomers, including Filipino, Indian, Chinese, and Latin American communities.
Work Environment: Fair, respectful workplaces with a strong focus on safety and employee wellbeing. You’ll typically work 30–40 hours/week, with penalties or overtime for weekend/holiday shifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need experience to be a housekeeper in New Zealand?
While experience is preferred, it’s not always required.
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What are the responsibilities of a housekeeper in New Zealand?
Housekeepers typically perform general cleaning tasks like vacuuming, dusting, and maintaining cleanliness. They may also change linens, restock supplies, and provide excellent customer service.
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Do I need prior experience?
No, but it helps. Many employers provide training.
