Green List Shortage Roles in New Zealand

New Zealand’s Green List identifies occupations facing national skill shortages. We assist skilled migrants in finding jobs aligned with these opportunities through personalised support and employer engagement strategies.


From 18 August 2025, the Green List expands to include new skilled‑trade roles to meet regional needs in construction, manufacturing, and automotive refinishing.

Trades – Added August 2025

  1. Metal Fabricator – Specialists in shaping and assembling metal components
  2. Metal Machinist (First Class) – Precision operators of lathes and milling machines
  3. Fitter (General), Fitter & Turner, Fitter‑Welder – Industrial machine assemblers and repair specialists
  4. Welder, Pressure Welder – High‑skill welders for structural and pressurised work
  5. Panel Beater, Vehicle Painter – Automotive repair and refinishing professionals
  6. Paving Plant Operator – Road and infrastructure machinery operator

These roles allow eligible candidates with a job offer from an Accredited Employer to apply directly for residence. They are high‑demand positions ideal for experienced professionals looking to settle in New Zealand quickly.

Health & Social Services

  • Anaesthetist, Radiologist, Cardiologist – Medical specialists essential to NZ’s health service
  • Midwife, Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist – Vital clinicians in workforce shortage areas
  • Clinical Psychologist, Chiropractor, Dentist – Mental health and allied health professionals in demand
  • Anaesthetic Technician, Audiologist, Optometrist – Technical roles vital for patient care

Engineering & Construction

  • Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Structural Engineers – Core infrastructure roles with ongoing vacancies
  • Telecoms & Environmental Engineers – Experts needed for sustainable and digital growth
  • Construction Project Manager, Quantity Surveyor, Site Foreman – Project leadership roles in demand
  • Surveyor – Essential for land measurement and development

ICT & Electronics

  • ICT Systems Administrator, Analyst Programmer – Core IT professionals for enterprise functions
  • Telecoms Network Engineer, Electronics Technician – Critical for NZ’s digital infrastructure

Business & Finance

  • External & Internal Auditor – Financial oversight and compliance roles in shortage

These roles require 24 months in the job with an Accredited Employer before qualifying for residence. They cover essential trades and services that support everyday life in New Zealand.

Construction & Civil Machinery

  • Earthmoving Plant Operators – Excavator, Grader, Bulldozer, Loader, Backhoe operators for civil projects
  • Crane Operators & Hoist Drivers – Crucial for vertical construction and logistics

Skilled Trades

  • Electricians, Plumbers, Gasfitters – Licensed trades supporting infrastructure needs
  • Automotive & Diesel Mechanics – Vehicle maintenance professionals for NZ transport
  • Motorcycle Mechanics – Engine specialists in demand

Agriculture

  • Dairy Cattle Farmers & Managers – Key workers in NZ’s top export industry

Education & Social Services

  • Early Childhood & Special Needs Teachers – Registered educators shaping future generations
  • School Principals, ESOL Teachers – Education leaders and language experts


With over 17 years’ experience, we’ve helped thousands of people—including foreign job seekers—find work and start new lives in New Zealand. Our focus is on job-finding strategies tailored to your strengths.


Limited‑Time Invitation

For a short time, our founder Tate is hosting a free presentation for skilled workers seeking employment in New Zealand.

To qualify:
✉️ Send your CV for an expert evaluation.
⏳ We respond within 1 business day with helpful insights and an invitation if you qualify.
📧 tate@employmentforimmigration.nz


Learn more:
🔗 Main Website →
🔗 About Tate →