Top In-Demand Jobs on the Green List NZ for 2025

New Zealand continues to be a highly attractive destination for skilled professionals across the globe, especially with the introduction and expansion of its Green List - a strategic list of occupations that are in critical demand across key industries. As of 2025, NZ Immigration has updated Green list NZ to include emerging and persistent skill shortages, aiming to attract top-tier talent to support its economic and infrastructural development.

At Immigration Chambers, we recognize the importance of informed career choices for migrants. Below is an in-depth look at the top in-demand jobs on the Green List NZ for 2025, highlighting career paths that offer both immediate residency pathways and long-term employment security.

Top Demanding Jobs on the Green List NZ

1. Health and Aged Care Professionals Remain a Priority

With an aging population and increased healthcare demands, New Zealand continues to prioritize health sector professionals.

Registered Nurses (All Specialisations)

Registered Nurses, including those in aged care, mental health, perioperative, and community health, remain critically short across the country. Qualified nurses can apply under the Straight to Residence pathway if they secure a job offer from an accredited employer.

• Minimum requirement: NZ registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand

• Regions in demand: Auckland, Waikato, Canterbury, Otago

General Practitioners (GPs) and Medical Specialists

General Practitioners, psychiatrists, radiologists, oncologists, and anesthetists are all permanently listed under Tier 1 of the Green List.

• Residency pathway: Eligible for fast-tracked residency

• Median salary: NZD $180,000 – $300,000+

• Employer type: Public health boards and private practices

Midwives

Midwives remain in urgent demand, particularly in regional and rural areas where shortages are critical.

• Work-to-residence pathway available for new entrants

• Support for relocation often provided by District Health Boards (DHBs)

2. Construction and Infrastructure Roles Dominate the Green List

Civil Engineers and Structural Engineers

Ongoing investments in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and earthquake strengthening, have led to continuous demand for civil and structural engineers.

• Key specializations: Transportation, geotechnical, and environmental engineering

• Requirement: Recognised qualification + relevant work experience

Quantity Surveyors and Project Managers

Professionals in construction cost estimation and project management are sought after, especially in commercial and residential building projects.

• High regional demand: Christchurch, Wellington, Tauranga

• Accredited employers: Fletcher Construction, Hawkins, Downer NZ

Plumbers, Electricians, and Carpenters

Skilled trades such as plumbing, electrical, and carpentry work remain essential and listed under the Work to Residence category.

• Licensing: Must meet NZ Trade Certification Board standards

• Opportunities: Infrastructure rebuilds, new housing developments

3. Technology and ICT Specialists on the Rise

New Zealand’s growing tech ecosystem places ICT professionals among the most strategically vital Green List roles.

Software Developers and Engineers

Demand is especially high for full-stack developers, AI/ML engineers, and DevOps specialists.

• Visa support: Accredited employers like Xero, Datacom, and government agencies

• Hybrid work models: Common across the sector

Cybersecurity Analysts

Increased digital infrastructure has raised the need for cybersecurity analysts and IT risk managers.

• Preferred qualifications: CISSP, CISA, or relevant bachelor’s degree

• Fast-tracked residency available in specific roles

ICT Project Managers and Systems Analysts

These professionals help drive complex digital transformations across multiple sectors, including banking, healthcare, and education.

• Sought-after experience: Agile, Scrum, digital transformation

• Annual salaries: NZD $110,000 – $160,000+

3. Education Sector Needs Qualified Professionals

Secondary School Teachers (STEM Focus)

Teachers with expertise in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and digital technologies are in high demand, particularly in regional schools.

• Green List category: Work to Residence

• Teacher registration: Required through the Teaching Council of New Zealand

Early Childhood Teachers

There is a significant shortage of qualified early childhood educators, especially in fast-growing urban centers.

• Qualification required: Level 7 degree or diploma in ECE

• Residency pathway: Via Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

You may like this: Primary Teachers in Demand : Guide for Overseas Teachers on Straight to Residence Pathway

4. Primary Industries - Agriculture and Forestry Experts in Demand

Dairy Farm Managers and Agriculture Consultants

With dairy being a backbone of NZ’s economy, experienced farm managers and consultants are listed under the Green List work-to-residence pathway.

• Seasonal work: Available but long-term positions prioritized

• Preferred experience: Large-scale herd management, sustainable farming practices

Forestry Scientists and Environmental Consultants

New Zealand’s commitment to environmental conservation and native bush preservation has elevated the demand for forestry scientists, GIS specialists, and biodiversity officers.

5. Engineering Technicians and Mechanical Trades

Mechanical Engineers and Engineering Technicians

Professionals who specialize in mechanical systems, HVAC, and industrial equipment are actively recruited for infrastructure and manufacturing projects.

• Industries: Food processing, renewable energy, transportation

• Visa advantage: Pathways through long-term skill shortage category

Diesel Motor Mechanics and Heavy Vehicle Technicians

With a growing freight and transportation sector, mechanics specializing in heavy diesel engines and fleet management are integral to logistics.

• Employers: Transport firms, logistics companies, defense services

• Median pay: NZD $60,000 – $85,000+

6. Hospitality and Tourism Still Emerging from Recovery

Chefs (Specialised Cuisine)

While not as prominent on the Green List, qualified chefs, especially in ethnic cuisine and high-end dining, continue to have opportunities under regional shortages.

• Requirements: NZQF Level 4 certificate or equivalent

• Preferred backgrounds: 3+ years of professional kitchen experience

7. Aviation and Maritime Professionals See Growth

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers

As international air traffic resumes, there is renewed demand for aircraft technicians, avionics specialists, and maintenance engineers.

• Pathways: Green List Tier 2 (Work to Residence)

• Key employers: Air New Zealand, Hamilton Jet, Rocket Lab

Ship Masters and Marine Engineers

Shipping routes and commercial sea transport need experienced maritime professionals to meet compliance and trade expansion goals.

• Requirements: Marine Officer certifications and international sea time experience

• Ports hiring: Tauranga, Auckland, Lyttelton

Green List NZ Eligibility and Application Guidelines

To benefit from the Green List pathways, applicants must:

• Hold a valid job offer from an Accredited Employer

• Meet the qualification and registration criteria specific to their profession

• Apply through the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) route initially

• Check whether the role is listed under Tier 1 (Straight to Residence) or Tier 2 (Work to Residence)

Conclusion

The Green List 2025 clearly reflects New Zealand's long-term economic vision and strategic labor needs. As immigration policies continue to evolve, professionals across healthcare, engineering, IT, construction, and education have significant opportunities for residency and career development in New Zealand.

We encourage eligible individuals to pursue roles listed on the Green List NZ and connect with licensed Immigration Advisers in Auckland to streamline their pathway to permanent residence. A well-matched profession with verified credentials and employer sponsorship is the fastest route to building a successful future in New Zealand.

At Immigration Chambers, we don’t just process visas - we unlock futures. With expert insight into the Green List NZ, we align your skills with the most sought-after roles. From assessing eligibility to managing documents and liaising with accredited employers, we simplify the path to residency. Let us help you turn opportunity into reality in New Zealand.