Auckland

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Support Services

General organizations and resources available to help newcomers with employment advice and settling into work in Auckland.

Sections

1. Categories of Work and Employment Support Services in Auckland

a. Job Search Assistance

  • Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ):

    • Services Offered: Job search support, career advice, CV preparation, interview coaching, and access to job listings.
    • Eligibility: Primarily for New Zealand citizens, residents, and those on specific visas (e.g., work visas).
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Visit a local WINZ office or register online at Work and Income NZ.
    • Local Considerations: WINZ also provides financial assistance for those struggling to meet living costs while job hunting.

  • Recruitment Agencies:

    • Examples: Hays Recruitment, Randstad, Madison Recruitment, and Drake International.
    • Services Offered: Job matching, temporary and permanent placements, and industry-specific opportunities.
    • Eligibility: Open to all job seekers.
    • Cost: Free for job seekers (employers pay the agency fees).
    • How to Access: Register online or visit their offices in Auckland.

  • Job Boards and Websites:

    • Examples: Seek (seek.co.nz), Trade Me Jobs (trademe.co.nz/jobs), and Indeed (nz.indeed.com).
    • Services Offered: Online job listings across industries.
    • Cost: Free for job seekers.
    • Local Considerations: Tailor your CV to New Zealand standards (concise, with a focus on skills and achievements).

b. Career Guidance and Training

  • Careers.govt.nz (Tertiary Education Commission):

    • Services Offered: Career planning tools, industry insights, and advice on upskilling.
    • Eligibility: Open to everyone.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Visit Careers NZ.

  • Auckland Libraries:

    • Services Offered: Free workshops on CV writing, interview skills, and digital literacy.
    • Eligibility: Open to library members (membership is free for Auckland residents).
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Check the Auckland Libraries website for event schedules.

  • Industry Training Organisations (ITOs):

    • Examples: Competenz, Skills, and Primary ITO.
    • Services Offered: Apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and certifications in various industries.
    • Eligibility: Open to those employed or seeking employment in relevant industries.
    • Cost: Varies; some costs may be covered by employers or government subsidies.
    • How to Access: Contact the relevant ITO directly.

c. Migrant and Refugee Employment Support

  • Auckland Regional Migrant Services (ARMS):

    • Services Offered: Job search workshops, networking events, and one-on-one employment support for migrants and refugees.
    • Eligibility: Migrants, refugees, and international students.
    • Cost: Free or low-cost.
    • How to Access: Visit ARMS or attend their events.

  • New Kiwis (Auckland Chamber of Commerce):

    • Services Offered: Free online job-matching platform connecting skilled migrants with employers.
    • Eligibility: Migrants and international students with valid work rights.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Register at New Kiwis.

  • Belong Aotearoa:

    • Services Offered: Employment readiness programs, mentoring, and support for migrants and refugees.
    • Eligibility: Migrants and refugees.
    • Cost: Free or low-cost.
    • How to Access: Visit Belong Aotearoa.

d. Support for Students and Young Job Seekers

  • Student Job Search (SJS):

    • Services Offered: Part-time, casual, and graduate job opportunities for students.
    • Eligibility: Tertiary students and recent graduates.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Register at Student Job Search.

  • Youth Employment Programs:

    • Examples: Youth Employability Program (YEP) and Youth Connections.
    • Services Offered: Work readiness training, internships, and job placements for young people aged 16-24.
    • Eligibility: Young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Contact local providers or Auckland Council.

e. Support for Entrepreneurs and Self-Employment

  • Business.govt.nz:

    • Services Offered: Resources for starting and running a business, including tax, compliance, and funding advice.
    • Eligibility: Open to all.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Visit Business.govt.nz.

  • The Icehouse:

    • Services Offered: Business coaching, workshops, and networking for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
    • Eligibility: Entrepreneurs and small business owners.
    • Cost: Fees vary depending on the program.
    • How to Access: Visit The Icehouse.

  • Auckland Unlimited:

    • Services Offered: Support for startups, innovation hubs, and access to funding opportunities.
    • Eligibility: Entrepreneurs and businesses in Auckland.
    • Cost: Free or subsidized.
    • How to Access: Visit Auckland Unlimited.

2. Procedures to Access These Services

  1. Identify Your Needs: Determine whether you need job search assistance, career guidance, training, or entrepreneurial support.
  2. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the service (e.g., visa status, age, or employment status).
  3. Register Online or In-Person: Most services require online registration or a visit to their office.
  4. Prepare Documentation: Have your CV, cover letter, and identification documents (e.g., passport, visa) ready.
  5. Attend Workshops or Appointments: Many services offer workshops or one-on-one sessions to provide personalized support.

3. Costs Associated with Services

  • Most government and non-profit services are free or low-cost.
  • Private recruitment agencies and training programs may charge fees, but these are typically paid by employers or subsidized.
  • Entrepreneurial support services may have program fees, but funding or grants may be available.

4. Local Considerations

  • Cultural Fit: Employers in Auckland value soft skills, teamwork, and a positive attitude. Tailor your CV and interview responses to reflect these qualities.
  • Networking: Networking is crucial in Aucklandโ€™s job market. Attend industry events, join LinkedIn groups, and connect with local professionals.
  • Work Rights: Ensure your visa allows you to work in New Zealand. Employers may ask for proof of your work rights.
  • Minimum Wage: As of October 2023, the minimum wage in New Zealand is NZD $22.70 per hour. Ensure your employment complies with this.
  • Employment Law: Familiarize yourself with New Zealandโ€™s employment laws, including rights to fair treatment, holiday pay, and sick leave. Visit Employment NZ for details.

5. Additional Resources

  • Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB):
    • Services Offered: Free advice on employment rights, contracts, and workplace disputes.
    • How to Access: Visit CAB or a local branch.
  • Migrant Exploitation Reporting:
    • If you experience unfair treatment or exploitation, report it to Immigration New Zealand at Migrant Exploitation.

By leveraging these resources and understanding local practices, youโ€™ll be well-equipped to navigate Aucklandโ€™s work and employment landscape. Let me know if you need further assistance!