Work & Travel New Zealand

2023 Arrival Dates

Arrivals are Sundays and your accommodation will be pre-booked until the following Sunday morning (7 nights). Extra nights can be easily added before or after this window.

Prior to travel

Try to sign up 3+ months in advance. Prior to travel you’ll have the chance to join an online orientation to prepare you for the job search, logistics like buying a car or public transportation, cost of living, accommodation, and much more. We’re also here to answer any questions you have, including about the visa application.

The first seven nights

The arrival week is the core of your program. It’s a way to settle in, meet people, see some sights, and pick up some local knowledge so you’re in a better position to work and travel where and when you want for up to a year. After the itinerary below, you can structure your time how you want, but the support team will remain available to consult anytime.

Sunday: Arrival

You’ll arrive on New Zealand’s north island in the city of Auckland to start your adventure. Take the shuttle (included) to the LyLo hostel. Use this day to unwind, connect with other travelers via your pre-arranged Whatsapp group, and get ready for a great kick-off week! If you prefer to arrive a day or two earlier just let us know and we’ll add extra nights to your arrival accommodation.

Monday: Welcome and Walking Tour

You’ll meet your coordinator at the hostel for a brief welcome orientation and head out for a city walking tour. In addition to some sightseeing you’ll take care of your bank account, SIM card, and tax filing number set up. The afternoon is free before heading out for a drink in the evening.

Tuesday: Program Orientation

Today you’ll learn about the kinds of work available, how to land jobs, and get your resume ready for seasonal positions in New Zealand. Also join a separate orientation session focused on traveling in New Zealand before your group dinner. Finish the day with a ferry ride to Devonport: a relaxed bay side village in Auckland with lots to explore. Dinner will be at a local restaurant with the group.

Wednesday: Free day and time for job consultation

This day is kept mostly free for you to consult with the jobs team as desired, and / or explore the city. We recommend breakfast at Commercial Bay and a stroll to wynyard Quarter prior to

Thursday: Auckland to Paihia and BBQ

Departing Auckland, your first stop will be Whangarei Falls on your way to the Bay of Islands around midday. Check out the sights surrounding Paihia, including New Zealand’s most historic location Waitangi - the ‘Birthplace of the Nation’. Northland is rich in history and Māori culture and with its crystal-clear water, huge kauri forests, and plentiful islands.

Friday: Free day to explore the Bay of Islands

Today you get a full day to explore the amazing Bay of Islands. This place has an awesome selection of water and land-based adventure activities so take the opportunity to go fishing, sailing, dolphin swimming, nature walking, or just relax on one of the beaches in the area.

Saturday: Adventure Awaits …

The last day of the tour and we plan to finish on a high. After breakfast we will head a little further north to Kerikeri - Northlands largest town and home to some of the most amazing hikes and waterfalls. After a morning full of hiking and chasing waterfalls, we will head to the “Old Packhouse” Farmer’s market for lunch, famous for its fresh produce and amazing coffee, before heading back to Auckland.

Ongoing support

Beyond these initial activities your program includes support as needed for up to one year in New Zealand including guidance for your job search or travels around New Zealand, access to a member’s lounge and social events, mail holding and forwarding service, advice on finding long-term accommodation, and more.

We aim to adhere to the schedule above, but due to seasonality and group size, activities are subject to change.