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.
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)
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
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+
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
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.
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+
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
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
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)
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.