NEW ZEALAND PEO & EOR
Hire in New Zealand without
a local entity today
As a Global PEO & EOR service provider, we pride ourselves on our global reach, in-country knowledge, and ability to swiftly and efficiently mobilize workers around the world. Our robust PEO/EOR covers everything from global HR, payroll, compliance, in-country support, immigration, visas, and more.
Get started and hire in New Zealand today with Gibson Watts Global.
DID YOU KNOW
- New Zealand is home to the world’s smallest dolphin species, the Hector’s dolphin, found only in its coastal waters.
- The country has more sheep than people—around 25 million sheep compared to just over 5 million people.
- Around 30% of New Zealand’s land is protected as national parks and reserves, making it one of the world’s greenest countries.
Forget software,
this is expansion
with a human touch
New Zealand EOR Services
A Gateway to the South Pacific’s Innovative Workforce
New Zealand offers a highly skilled, multicultural workforce, a robust regulatory environment, and a strong affinity with Asia-Pacific trade dynamics. Its modern infrastructure, transparent business practices, and English-speaking talent pool make it a prime location for global expansion.
Operating compliantly in New Zealand requires navigating multiple layers of employment law and payroll obligations. Partnering with Gibson Watts Global as your EOR in New Zealand simplifies this process. We manage payroll, benefits, social contributions, and full legal compliance—letting you focus on growing your business.
Working in New Zealand
Financial Year Dates
New Zealand’s financial year runs from 1 April to 31 March.
Minimum Wage
From 1 April 2025, the adult minimum wage is NZD 23.50/hour; the starting-out and training minimum wage is NZD 18.80/hour.
Standard working hours
Full-time work is typically 40 hours per week, often spread over five days. Employers and employees must agree on the specific arrangements.
Overtime
Overtime must be mutually agreed in writing. No statutory rates apply; compensation depends on contract terms. Work beyond specified hours may be compensated with pay or time off, as per agreement.
Holiday Allowance
Employees are entitled to 4 weeks of paid annual leave. Public holidays are separate and must be granted as days off (paid) or with alternative paid days if worked.
Sick Leave
After 6 months of continuous employment, employees are entitled to 5 days of paid sick leave per year. Bereavement leave is also provided, varying by relationship.
Maternity & Paternity Leave
New Zealand offers up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, shared between parents. Funding is administered by the government (not the employer).
Public Holidays
New Zealand observes national public holidays including:
- New Year’s Day and Day after
- Waitangi Day
- Good Friday & Easter Monday
- Anzac Day
- King’s Birthday
- Matariki
- Labour Day
- Christmas Day & Boxing Day
Social Contributions
Both employers and employees contribute to New Zealand’s social safety net, covering healthcare, pensions, and unemployment.
- Employers pay contributions to cover ACC (Accident Compensation), KiwiSaver, and social welfare levies.
- Employees contribute via KiwiSaver and ACC levies deducted from their wages.
Income Tax
New Zealand applies a progressive income tax system, with the 2025 rates as follows:
- Up to NZD 14,000: 10.5%
- NZD 14,001–48,000: 17.5%
- NZD 48,001–70,000: 30%
- NZD 70,001–180,000: 33%
- Over NZD 180,000: 39%
Health Care
New Zealand offers universal public healthcare, funded through taxation and employer contributions. Public healthcare covers most primary services; many expats opt for private health insurance for quicker access or specialist care.
Visas
Work Visa
Issued to foreign employees with job offers; usually employer-sponsored and renewable.
Entrepreneur / Investor Visas
For individuals investing or establishing businesses in New Zealand.
Essential Skills Work Visa
For roles in demand where local talent is unavailable.
Working Holiday Visa
Allows young people (18–30 years) from eligible countries to work and travel for up to 12 months.
13th salary?
New Zealand does not mandate a 13th-month salary. Compensation is based on wage rates and employment terms specified in contracts.
Cultural Information
New Zealand is celebrated for its manaakitanga (“hospitality” and caring) and strong bicultural heritage with Māori. The Māori language and traditions are widely respected and woven into national identity. Kiwis value work–life balance, spending time outdoors, and personal wellbeing. The country also has a thriving arts scene, especially in film (e.g., The Lord of the Rings) and music.