Supermarket Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Looking for supermarket jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship? There are many opportunities available for foreigners across various roles, from cashier to stock replenishment. 

New Zealand’s supermarkets are actively seeking seasonal and long-term workers, offering visa sponsorship to help you live and work in this beautiful country.

Read on to learn about the eligibility for supermarket jobs in New Zealand, find top employers offering visa sponsorship, and access application links to help you get started now.

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

There are several criteria and requirements that both workers and employers must meet to be eligible for supermarket jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship:

• Work Visa Requirements: Foreign workers seeking supermarket jobs in New Zealand typically need a valid work visa. Employers may sponsor workers under the Essential Skills Work Visa, Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme, or other applicable visas, depending on the job type and length of employment. 
• Age and Health: There is generally no strict age limit for supermarket jobs, though workers must be in good health and able to perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting heavy boxes and working long shifts. 
• Skills and Experience: While many supermarket roles are entry-level (such as cashier, shelf stocking, and customer service), having prior experience in retail or customer-facing roles can improve your chances of securing a job. 
• Language Proficiency: Since communication with customers and team members is a key part of supermarket jobs, basic proficiency in English is required. Some employers may ask for proof of language skills, especially for customer service roles.
• Location and Job Availability: Supermarket jobs with visa sponsorship are most commonly available in larger cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, though rural supermarkets also hire seasonal workers.
• Employer Sponsorship: Employers in New Zealand must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand to offer visa sponsorship. This means they must demonstrate a genuine need for foreign workers and a willingness to assist with the visa process.
• Commitment to the Job: Some supermarkets may have specific requirements related to job duration. For example, if the position is seasonal, you may be expected to stay for the full duration of the harvest or retail cycle.

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

Here are the steps:

Step 1: Research Supermarket Job Opportunities

Start by researching available supermarket job listings in New Zealand. Use job search engines like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and the New Zealand Government’s Work and Income website. 

You can check the career pages of major supermarket chains like Countdown, Pak’nSave, and New World, which often advertise roles requiring visa sponsorship for foreign workers.

Step 2: Identify Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship

Once you find job listings, verify whether the employer offers visa sponsorship. Look for job ads that explicitly mention visa sponsorship or contact the employer directly to confirm their willingness to sponsor a work visa. 

Employers accredited with Immigration New Zealand are eligible to sponsor foreign workers. 

Some supermarkets may also advertise seasonal positions under the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme, which provides visa sponsorship.

Step 3: Ensure You Meet Eligibility Requirements

Review the job description and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the role, such as required skills, experience, language proficiency, and physical health. 

For supermarket jobs, you need basic English communication skills and previous experience in retail (though some roles may not require prior experience). Ensure you are eligible for a work visa, either through the Essential Skills Work Visa or another suitable visa category.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Prepare your resume, cover letter, and any supporting documents, such as proof of work experience, qualifications, and language proficiency. 

Make sure your documents are tailored to New Zealand standards, highlighting relevant skills and experience. If necessary, include your visa history or any references that may strengthen your application.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Apply for the job online through the supermarket’s career portal or via job search websites. Include a well-written cover letter explaining why you want to work in New Zealand, your skills, and why you’re a good fit for the role. 

Make sure to double-check that you meet all the application requirements and submit all necessary documents.

Step 6: Attend Interviews and Follow Up

If your application is shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your previous experience, your availability, and your ability to work in New Zealand. 

Employers may ask about your visa status and how soon you can start working. After the interview, follow up with a thank-you email and express your enthusiasm for the role.

Step 7: Receive a Job Offer and Visa Sponsorship

If you successfully pass the interview process, you will be given a job offer. Once you accept the offer, the employer will guide you through the process of applying for a work visa. 

They will provide the necessary documentation to support your visa application, including the job offer letter and any additional paperwork needed for visa sponsorship.

Step 8: Apply for Your Work Visa

With your job offer in hand, you can now apply for a work visa through Immigration New Zealand. 

Depending on the type of visa, you may need to provide additional documentation such as proof of funds, health checks, and police certificates. Follow the steps provided by Immigration New Zealand to submit your application.

Step 9: Prepare for Your Move to New Zealand

Once your visa is approved, make arrangements to move to New Zealand. This includes organizing accommodation, flights, and any additional legal requirements like health insurance or bank accounts. 

Some employers may provide temporary accommodation or support with relocation, so it’s worth confirming these details in advance.

Step 10: Start Your Job and Enjoy New Zealand

After you arrive in New Zealand, you can begin your supermarket job. Familiarize yourself with local workplace regulations, cultural expectations, and health and safety standards. 

Take the opportunity to explore the country, meet new people, and enjoy all that New Zealand has to offer.

Top Companies Offering Supermarket Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the top supermarkets in New Zealand offering visa sponsorship jobs:

Pak’nSave

Pak’nSave is a well-known supermarket chain offering affordable groceries across New Zealand. They hire seasonal workers, including foreigners, to fill roles in various departments such as customer service, stock management, and warehouse positions. 

Pak’nSave is open to visa sponsorship for workers, particularly under the Essential Skills Work Visa. Foreign applicants with relevant experience in retail or customer service are eligible to apply. 

Job seekers can find current vacancies and more information on visa sponsorship by visiting Pak’nSave Careers.

New World

New World is another leading supermarket chain in New Zealand, offering a broad spectrum of roles from grocery assistants to department managers. 

The company is open to sponsoring foreign workers for the Essential Skills Work Visa and other work visa categories. 

As one of New Zealand’s largest grocery chains, New World offers competitive pay, benefits, and career growth opportunities. They regularly seek workers for both permanent and seasonal roles.

To apply for jobs and explore visa sponsorship opportunities, visit New World Careers.

The Warehouse Group

The Warehouse Group operates a range of retail stores across New Zealand, including supermarkets and retail outlets. 

They sponsor foreign workers for positions within their supermarket operations, especially in logistics, customer service, and merchandising. They actively hire under the Essential Skills Work Visa and have specific roles for visa-sponsored workers. 

If you’re interested in working for The Warehouse Group, check out available positions and their visa sponsorship details at Warehouse Group Careers.

Foodstuffs North Island

Foodstuffs North Island is the parent company of Pak’nSave, New World, and Four Square, offering many roles across its supermarket network. They regularly sponsor foreign workers for a variety of positions, including supermarket assistants, stock controllers, and managers. 

Foodstuffs North Island is accredited with Immigration New Zealand to provide visa sponsorship through the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme and other visa categories. 

They provide training and development opportunities, making them a great choice for those looking to start a career in retail. 

You can find more information and apply for jobs at Foodstuffs Careers.

Bunnings New Zealand

Bunnings is a major retailer in New Zealand, specializing in home improvement, garden supplies, and some grocery products. 

Although they are primarily known for their hardware and garden supplies, they offer supermarket and grocery roles within their stores. 

Bunnings supports visa sponsorship for foreign workers under the Essential Skills Work Visa and other applicable visa schemes. They offer full-time and part-time roles, with opportunities for career advancement. 

If you are interested in working with Bunnings, you can apply and learn more about their visa sponsorship options at Bunnings Careers.

Farro Fresh

Farro Fresh is a well-known premium supermarket chain in New Zealand, focused on fresh, high-quality groceries, organic produce, and specialty food items. 

The company often hires foreign workers for roles such as customer service representatives, stock assistants, and department managers. 

Farro Fresh sponsors work visas for foreign workers through the Essential Skills Work Visa and have an active interest in hiring staff who can contribute to the customer-focused nature of their stores. 

To apply, visit Farro Fresh Careers.

Four Square

As part of the Foodstuffs group, Four Square operates a network of small, community-focused supermarkets throughout New Zealand.

These stores provide a range of roles, from cashier to stock replenishment, and are particularly suited for workers who prefer a smaller, more local work environment.

Foreign workers are eligible for visa sponsorship under the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme and the Essential Skills Work Visa. Four Square offers both seasonal and long-term job opportunities.

You can explore available roles at Four Square Careers.

Woolworths New Zealand

Although Woolworths New Zealand has merged with Countdown, it still operates as a recognizable brand in the supermarket sector.

Woolworths offers roles in various areas, including store assistance, management, and logistics. The company is open to sponsoring foreign workers under the Essential Skills Work Visa or other work visa categories.

Woolworths New Zealand provides opportunities for both entry-level workers and experienced staff.

To apply, visit Woolworths Careers.

The Average Salary for Supermarket Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

The salary for supermarket jobs in New Zealand varies based on factors such as the role, location, experience, and whether the job is part-time or full-time. 

Here’s a breakdown of the average salary for different supermarket job categories:

National Average Salary (Hourly & Annually)

• Hourly Rate: The average hourly wage for supermarket jobs in New Zealand is approximately NZD 22 – 25 per hour.
• Annual Salary: For full-time roles, this translates to an average annual salary of about NZD 45,000 – 52,000 for entry-level positions. Experienced workers or those in managerial roles can earn significantly more, up to NZD 65,000 – 75,000 per year.

Salary by Role

• Supermarket Assistants (Entry-level positions): NZD 20 – 22/hour (NZD 41,000 – 45,000/year). Supermarket assistants typically perform tasks such as stock replenishment, cashier duties, and customer service.
• Cashiers: NZD 21 – 23/hour (NZD 43,000 – 48,000/year). Cashiers operate registers, assist customers at checkout, and sometimes perform additional responsibilities like stock management.
• Stock Controllers/Inventory Assistants: NZD 22 – 24/hour (NZD 46,000 – 50,000/year), These workers manage inventory, ensure stock is on the shelves, and track product availability.
• Deli Workers/Butchers: NZD 22 – 25/hour (NZD 47,000 – 53,000/year). Deli workers often have more specialized roles, including food preparation, packaging, and customer service in the deli or butcher department.
• Department Managers: NZD 25 – 30/hour (NZD 55,000 – 65,000/year). Department managers oversee operations in specific departments, such as produce, bakery, or meat, and manage teams of employees.
• Supermarket Managers: NZD 30 – 35/hour (NZD 62,000 – 75,000/year). Supermarket managers are responsible for the overall operations of the store, including budgeting, staffing, and customer satisfaction.

Salary by Location

• Auckland: The cost of living in Auckland is higher, and salaries for supermarket jobs reflect this. For instance, entry-level positions might start at NZD 22 per hour, while managerial roles can exceed NZD 75,000 annually.
• Wellington: Salaries are generally in line with the national average, with supermarket workers earning around NZD 22 – 25 per hour.
• Christchurch: Due to the lower cost of living in Christchurch, wages for supermarket jobs may be slightly lower, around NZD 20 – 22 per hour for entry-level positions.
• Rural Areas: In smaller towns or rural regions, supermarket salaries tend to be slightly lower. For example, a cashier in rural areas might earn NZD 20 per hour, while managerial roles could range from NZD 50,000 – 60,000 annually.

Salary by Experience Level

• Entry-Level Workers: As a starting point, supermarket workers with little to no experience can expect to earn between NZD 20 – 22 per hour.
• Mid-Level Workers: Those with 2-5 years of experience in retail or supermarket roles generally earn between NZD 23 – 28 per hour.
• Experienced Workers: Supermarket managers or workers with extensive experience (5+ years) can expect to earn higher wages, typically NZD 30 – 35 per hour, depending on their role and responsibilities.

Salary by Employment Type

• Full-Time: Full-time supermarket workers typically receive a stable salary and benefits. For instance, an entry-level cashier or stock assistant can expect NZD 45,000 – 50,000 annually.
• Part-Time: Part-time roles usually have hourly wages between NZD 20 – 22 per hour, but overall earnings depend on the number of hours worked per week.

Salary by Industry and Division

• Grocery Retail: Workers in general grocery store positions such as cashier and assistant can expect NZD 20 – 25 per hour.
• Fresh Food Divisions: Roles in departments like deli, bakery, and produce tend to offer slightly higher wages due to the specialized nature of the work, ranging from NZD 22 – 28 per hour.
• Logistics and Supply Chain: Workers in roles like stock controllers and warehouse staff can earn between NZD 22 – 26 per hour, with warehouse managers earning significantly more.

Other Considerations

• Overtime: Many supermarket jobs offer overtime pay for extra hours worked. Overtime is typically paid at a higher rate, around 1.5x to 2x the standard hourly rate depending on the supermarket’s policies.
• Employee Benefits: Supermarkets often offer additional benefits such as staff discounts, paid leave, and sometimes accommodation or relocation assistance, especially for seasonal positions.

Benefits of Supermarket Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the key benefits:

Opportunity for Career Growth

Supermarket jobs in New Zealand offer significant career advancement opportunities, especially for foreign workers with visa sponsorship. With experience, employees can move up the ladder from entry-level roles to management positions like department managers. 

Larger supermarket chains, like Countdown and New World, often offer career development programs, training, and internal promotions, making it possible to grow within the company. 

Many supermarkets provide specialized training in areas like customer service, inventory management, and retail operations, allowing you to build a diverse skill set.

Competitive Salaries

Supermarket jobs in New Zealand offer competitive pay, particularly when compared to other entry-level roles. On average, hourly wages range from NZD 20 to 25 per hour, with managerial roles offering higher pay rates. 

As a foreign worker with visa sponsorship, you can earn a solid income while gaining experience in New Zealand’s retail sector. 

In addition, supermarket chains often offer overtime pay and bonuses for seasonal work or high-demand periods, which can significantly boost your earnings.

Work-Life Balance

Many supermarkets offer part-time, full-time, and even shift work opportunities, allowing you to choose a schedule that fits your lifestyle. This flexibility is ideal for students, travelers, or anyone seeking a better work-life balance. 

In addition, many supermarkets are closed on public holidays, offering employees more time for personal activities and rest.

Visa Sponsorship and Work Permit Support

For foreigners, the biggest advantage of supermarket jobs in New Zealand is the possibility of visa sponsorship. 

Many of New Zealand’s largest supermarket chains, such as Countdown and Pak’nSave, actively sponsor foreign workers for Essential Skills Work Visas or Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Visas. 

This makes it easier for individuals to work and live in New Zealand legally, especially if you’re seeking a long-term opportunity or planning to transition from a seasonal job to a permanent role.

Stable Employment and Job Security

Supermarkets are essential businesses that remain open throughout the year, providing a stable source of employment. This is especially true during peak seasons like Christmas and the New Year, when supermarket demand increases. 

As a foreign worker with visa sponsorship, this stability ensures job security and a consistent income stream, even during periods of economic uncertainty. 

Working in a supermarket offers job continuity, as these businesses are less likely to experience layoffs compared to other sectors.

Health and Safety Benefits

New Zealand is known for its high standards of workplace health and safety, and supermarkets are no exception. 

Employers in the retail sector are required to follow strict health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment for all employees. This includes providing appropriate training, safety gear, and regular health and safety audits. 

Employee Discounts and Benefits

Many supermarkets in New Zealand offer their employees discounts on groceries and other products. This is particularly valuable for workers, as it can help reduce the cost of living. 

Additionally, some supermarket chains offer benefits such as paid sick leave, annual leave, and health insurance coverage for full-time employees. These benefits can significantly improve your overall quality of life while working in New Zealand.

Experience in a Multicultural Environment

New Zealand’s supermarkets employ workers from various cultural backgrounds. As a foreign worker, you have the chance to connect with people from different parts of the world, gain new cultural insights, and build your network. 

The multicultural nature of supermarket jobs in New Zealand also fosters an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, which can be particularly comforting for those new to the country.

Short-Term and Long-Term Opportunities

Supermarket jobs in New Zealand are perfect for both short-term job seekers and those looking for long-term careers. Whether you are planning to stay in New Zealand for a few months or a few years, there are flexible roles available for all types of workers. 

Seasonal positions, such as during the summer or holiday seasons, allow you to experience New Zealand while gaining work experience. 

On the other hand, permanent roles offer stability, benefits, and the opportunity to settle in New Zealand long term.

Exposure to New Zealand’s Retail Industry

Working in a supermarket in New Zealand allows you to gain valuable experience in the retail sector, which is beneficial for your resume and future job prospects. 

The retail industry in New Zealand is well-established, with modern business practices and a customer-centric approach. 

Working here will provide you with insights into efficient store operations, inventory management, and effective customer service strategies—skills that can be transferable to various other industries in New Zealand and abroad.

Access to New Zealand’s Scenic Lifestyle

From beaches to mountains, forests, and lakes, New Zealand offers a variety of outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes. 

As a supermarket worker with visa sponsorship, you can explore the country’s rich culture, visit world-renowned tourist destinations, and embrace an active and healthy lifestyle.

Support from Immigration New Zealand

New Zealand’s government offers strong support for foreign workers, including assistance with visa applications and residency pathways. 

Working with a supermarket that sponsors your visa ensures you have guidance throughout the immigration process. 

The Immigration New Zealand website provides information on work visas, residency options, and how to transition to permanent residence once you’ve accumulated enough experience and met the required criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grocery store position pays the most in New Zealand?

The highest-paying grocery store positions in New Zealand are generally department managers and supermarket managers. These roles can offer salaries ranging from NZD 55,000 to 75,000 annually, depending on experience and location.

Do supermarkets make a lot of money in New Zealand?

Yes, supermarkets in New Zealand are a lucrative business. The industry is essential to the economy, and large chains such as Countdown, Pak’nSave, and New World generate billions in annual revenue, making them highly profitable. 

Which store pays the most per hour in New Zealand?

Supermarkets like New World and Countdown offer competitive hourly wages, especially for experienced workers in managerial or department roles. Hourly rates for these positions can range from NZD 25 to 35 per hour, depending on the experience and responsibilities.

Which grocery stores make the most money in New Zealand?

Countdown, Pak’nSave, and New World are the top grocery stores in New Zealand in terms of revenue. These supermarket chains dominate the market, with Countdown and Pak’nSave often leading in terms of total income and profitability.

How much do supermarket assistants make in New Zealand?

Supermarket assistants in New Zealand earn an average hourly wage of NZD 20 – 22 per hour. This varies depending on the supermarket chain, location, and experience level. For example, entry-level assistants can expect to earn towards the lower end, while those with more experience or specialized duties may earn higher wages.