Finding a job and paying tax in New Zealand
A large number of job advertisements, particularly for full time jobs, are listed on-line. As in Australia, many jobs are listed by Recruitment Agencies. Check the following websites for listings:
You can start applying for roles before you leave but it helps if you are in the country and available for interviews. If you do apply prior to leaving, make sure to let the employer/agent know that your flights are confirmed and your date of arrival.
If you apply for a role through a Recruitment agent, they will most likely want to meet with you before they submit your CV to the company you are interested in.
Find out how much you could earn in New Zealand:Tax
| Taxable income | Tax rate* |
|---|---|
| up to $14,000 | 12.54 cents |
| from $14,001 to $48,000 | 19.54 cents |
| from $48,001 to $70,000 | 32.04 cents |
| $70,001 and over | 35.04 cents |
| No notification** | 47.04 cents |
The Tax Department in New Zealand is call Inland Revenue (also known as the IRD).
Every person working in New Zealand must have an IRD number to avoid being charged at a high tax rate. For more information about IRD numbers and to find out how to apply for one, visit the IRD website: http://www.ird.govt.nz/how-to/irdnumbers
The rates in the table shown are from the IRD website and apply from 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012.
*PAYE rates for every $1 of taxable income (including ACC earners' levy*). The earners' levy rate (including GST) for the period 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012 is 2.04% ($2.04 per $100)
**Employers are legally required to use the no notification rate when an employee does not fully complete the Tax code declaration (IR330). A completed form must include name, IRD number and tax code. The form must also be signed.
Superannuation (Kiwisaver)
New Zealand introduced the superannuation scheme Kiwisaver in early 2008. Kiwisaver is a voluntary scheme however you will be automatically enrolled when you start a new job unless you choose to opt out. Your employer will provide you with the information on how to do this.
You can join Kiwisaver if you are:
- a New Zealand citizen, or entitled to live in New Zealand indefinitely, and
- living or normally living in New Zealand, and
- under the age of 65.
Note: Australian citizens qualify for Kiwisaver as they are entitled to live in New Zealand indefinitely.
Under Kiwisaver, employees contribute 4% of their income to a savings fund that they can then access when they turn 65. Their employer is obligated to contribute another 2%.
For more information, visit the Kiwisaver website: http://www.kiwisaver.govt.nz