The construction sector has always been important in New Zealand. And roles such as site managers, quantity surveyors, land surveyors, and construction project managers have long been on the list of in-demand professions. In this article, we’ll explore the relocation options available for specialists in these fields.
Job search from abroad
For specialists listed on the so-called Green List, obtaining a work visa is slightly easier, as the employer is not required to prove to Immigration New Zealand that they couldn’t find a suitable candidate locally. Therefore, once a job offer is secured, a specialist can apply for a work visa and, after some time, for residency.
However, finding a job remotely is extremely challenging. Employers prefer to meet candidates in person, ideally those who already hold a valid work visa. To improve your chances of success, strong English skills and good references are essential. Experience working on international projects or with global companies is also a plus. You can find a detailed article about job searching in New Zealand on our website.
Language courses
You can come to New Zealand for language courses while simultaneously looking for a job in your field. If you choose a course lasting at least 14 weeks at a Category 1 school, you will have the right to work up to 20 hours per week. This not only helps improve your English but also allows you to gain local experience in entry-level roles and get references, which can help you pursue a job in your profession later (or even at the same time). If you find an accredited employer, you may be eligible for a work visa.
We can help you to select the most cost-effective language courses in New Zealand.
Vocational training
If you are unable to secure a job, there’s a Plan B — vocational training. These programs typically last 1–2 years, during which you will also have the right to work part-time. During your studies, you can significantly improve your skills, learn the specifics of the industry within New Zealand, gain local experience, build connections, and enhance your professional English.
Most importantly, graduates may be eligible for a Post Study Work Visa — an open work visa valid for 1 to 3 years after graduation.
Additionally, some vocational programs allow you to bring your family with you: the student’s partner may be eligible for a work visa, and school-aged children can attend public schools free of charge.
Level 9 programs
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Master of Construction Management
1 year, NZ$ 49 892
Massey University
Master of Construction
1,5 years NZ$ 72 702
University of Otago
Master of Surveying
1 year NZ$ 44,720
University of Canterbury
Master of Civil Engineering
1 year, NZ$ 51 066
Level 8 programs
Massey University
Postgraduate Diploma in Construction
1 year, NZ$ 48 558
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering
1 year, NZ$ 47 592
Level 7 programs
Unitec Institute of Technology
Graduate Diploma in Construction Project Management
1 year, NZ$ 26 782
Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki
Graduate Diploma in Engineering – Highways
1 year, NZ$ 30 966
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Graduate Diploma in Construction Management
1 year, NZ$ 26 370
Graduate Diploma in Quantity Surveying
1 year, NZ$ 26 370
Manukau Institute of Technology
Graduate Diploma in Engineering – Civil
1 year, NZ$ 33 604
Southern Institute of Technology
Graduate Diploma in Construction
1 year, NZ$ 26 050
International College of Auckland
Diploma in Civil Engineering Level 7
2 years, NZ$ 28 000 with a discount for our students
Level 6 programs
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Diploma in Construction – Construction Management
2 years, NZ$ 52 741
Diploma in Construction Management – Quantity Surveying
2 years, NZ$ 52 741
Northtec
Diploma in Construction – Quantity Surveying
2 years, NZ$ 52 600
Otago Polytechnic
Diploma in Construction – Quantity Surveying
2 years, NZ$ 53 462
Southern Institute of Technology
Diploma in Construction – Quantity Surveying
2 years, NZ$ 54 050
UCOL
Diploma in Construction (Construction Management or Quantity Surveying)
2 years, NZ$ 53 568
Unitec
Diploma in Construction – Quantity Surveying
2 years, NZ$ 52 782
Diploma in Construction – Construction Management
2 years, NZ$ 52 782
Diploma in Surveying
2 years, NZ$ 52 782
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Diploma in Construction – Quantity Surveying
2 years, NZ$ 52 714
Imperial College of New Zealand
Diploma in Construction (Construction Management or Quantity Surveying)
2 years, NZ$ 41 400
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