Tauranga

๐Ÿ’ผ

Employment Support

Services and information for job seekers, including skill development and CV assistance.

Sections

1. Employment Support Benefits in Tauranga

New Zealand offers a range of government-funded benefits and support services to help individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or facing financial hardship. These benefits are administered by Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ), a branch of the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). Below are the key categories of benefits and support available:

a. Jobseeker Support

  • What it is: A weekly payment for individuals who are actively seeking work or are temporarily unable to work due to health conditions or disabilities.
  • Eligibility:
    • Aged 18 or older (or 20+ if you have dependent children).
    • Legally allowed to work in New Zealand (e.g., citizens, residents, or those with valid work visas).
    • Actively looking for work or preparing to return to work.
    • Meet income and asset thresholds.
  • Associated Costs: Free to apply, but you may need to provide documentation (e.g., medical certificates, proof of job applications).
  • How to Apply:
    1. Create a MyMSD account online at my.msd.govt.nz.
    2. Complete the online application form.
    3. Attend an appointment at the local WINZ office in Tauranga (address below).
    4. Provide required documents (e.g., ID, proof of residency, bank statements, and evidence of job-seeking efforts).

b. Accommodation Supplement

  • What it is: A weekly payment to help with rent, board, or mortgage costs.
  • Eligibility:
    • Low to moderate income.
    • Paying rent, board, or a mortgage.
    • Meet residency requirements.
  • Associated Costs: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply: Apply through your MyMSD account or during your WINZ appointment.

c. Emergency Benefit

  • What it is: A temporary payment for individuals who are ineligible for other benefits but are in financial hardship.
  • Eligibility:
    • Not eligible for other benefits.
    • Facing financial hardship.
    • Meet residency and income requirements.
  • Associated Costs: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply: Contact WINZ directly for an assessment.

d. Working for Families Tax Credits

  • What it is: Financial support for families with dependent children.
  • Eligibility:
    • Have dependent children aged 18 or younger.
    • Meet income thresholds.
    • Be a New Zealand resident or citizen.
  • Associated Costs: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply: Apply through Inland Revenue (IRD) at ird.govt.nz.

e. Training Incentive Allowance

  • What it is: Financial assistance for individuals undertaking training or education to improve their employment prospects.
  • Eligibility:
    • Receiving a benefit (e.g., Jobseeker Support or Sole Parent Support).
    • Enrolled in an approved course or training program.
  • Associated Costs: Free to apply.
  • How to Apply: Discuss with your WINZ case manager.

2. Local Employment Support Services in Tauranga

In addition to government benefits, there are local organizations and resources in Tauranga that provide employment support, training, and job placement services.

a. Priority One

  • What it is: Taurangaโ€™s economic development agency, which connects job seekers with local employers and provides information about industries in the Bay of Plenty.
  • Services:
    • Job listings and career advice.
    • Networking opportunities with local businesses.
  • Website: priorityone.co.nz

b. Tauranga Budget Advisory Service

  • What it is: A free service offering financial advice and budgeting support to help you manage your finances while seeking employment.
  • Contact: taurangabudget.org.nz

c. Employment Plus

  • What it is: A Salvation Army initiative offering training and employment services.
  • Services:
    • Job search assistance.
    • CV writing and interview preparation.
    • Training programs.
  • Website: employmentplus.co.nz

d. Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology

  • What it is: A local tertiary education provider offering courses and training programs to improve employability.
  • Services:
    • Short courses and certifications.
    • Career counseling and job placement support.
  • Website: toiohomai.ac.nz

3. Application Procedures for Benefits

To access employment support benefits in Tauranga, follow these steps:

Step 1: Register with Work and Income

  • Visit the MyMSD website (my.msd.govt.nz) to create an account.
  • Complete the online registration form.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

  • Valid ID (passport, driverโ€™s license, or birth certificate).
  • Proof of residency or visa status.
  • Bank account details.
  • Evidence of income and assets (e.g., payslips, bank statements).
  • Proof of job-seeking efforts (e.g., job applications, CVs).

Step 3: Attend an Appointment

  • Book an appointment at the Tauranga WINZ office:
    • Address: 2 Devonport Road, Tauranga 3110.
    • Phone: 0800 559 009.
  • During the appointment, discuss your situation with a case manager and provide the required documents.

Step 4: Follow Up

  • Check your MyMSD account for updates on your application.
  • Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

4. Local Considerations for Newcomers

  • Residency Requirements: Most benefits require you to be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work visa. If you are on a temporary visa, you may not qualify for certain benefits.
  • Cultural Adaptation: Tauranga has a friendly and diverse community. Consider joining local groups or attending events to network and learn about job opportunities.
  • Transport: Public transport in Tauranga is limited, so having access to a car can improve your job prospects, especially for roles outside the city center.
  • Seasonal Work: Tauranga is a hub for horticulture, particularly kiwifruit and avocado industries. Seasonal work is often available, especially during harvest periods (March to June).

5. Additional Resources

  • Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Tauranga:
    • Provides free advice on employment rights, benefits, and local services.
    • Address: 38 Hamilton Street, Tauranga 3110.
    • Website: cab.org.nz
  • Immigration New Zealand:

By utilizing these resources and following the outlined steps, you can access the employment support and benefits available in Tauranga, New Zealand. If you need further assistance, donโ€™t hesitate to reach out to local organizations or government agencies for guidance.