Working Holiday in New Zealand
It's time to travel to the land of kiwis!
Working Holiday in New Zealand
Auckland
Location
2-23 months
Duration
18-35
Age
Working Holiday Visa
Visa
Year-round
Dates
What is a Working Holiday?
This is a unique program offered by the Canadian Government with many names (Working Holiday/Youth Mobility/Work and Travel), but the same amazing premise:
As a Canadian citizen, you are able to live and work abroad in another country while meeting locals, exploring the culture and earning your living and travel costs. True to the motto: Be more than a tourist!
It has never been easier to enjoy a paid holiday in one of the world’s most popular destinations, such as Australia, Germany and New Zealand.
Low-level requirements
Easy visa application process
Flexible duration, location and schedule
Low-budget program opportunities
Whether you plan on becoming a city slicker in Auckland, a ski instructor on the powder slopes of Mount Olympus or a fruit picker on the South Island, however, let us help you get a running start on your Working Holiday adventure in New Zealand!
Even though people often compare New Zealand to Canada due to its similarly breathtaking nature and the friendliness of its people (affectionately called Kiwis), things are not quite the same in New Zealand.
This is your chance to explore New Zealand like a local while living and working abroad with Go International!
THE HIGHLIGHTS
You will be given step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a Working Holiday Visa (Furthermore, why spend hours trying to figure out how to apply when we’ve already done it for you?)
You will be provided with assistance for the whole duration of your stay from your Go International travel advisor and a local partner organization. Imagine having a tour guide/program advisor at your disposal!
You will get a JOB FAST – we give you one-year access to hundreds of job leads and offer personal job assistance from friendly and experienced staff members.
You will be invited to join a detailed orientation on arrival and fun social activities with other backpackers. (Why search for your future roommate or travel buddy when you can meet them during your first week abroad?)
TOUR DATES 2026-27
Tour start dates are on the following Wednesdays in Auckland:
2026: Aug 5, Aug 19, Sep 2, Sep 9, Sep 16, Sep 23, Sep 30, Oct 7, Oct 14, Oct 21, Oct 28, Nov 11, Dec 9
2027: Jan 6, Jan 13, Jan 27, Feb 10, Feb 24, Mar 17, more dates coming soon!
Last updated: Jul 13
GO INTERNATIONAL RECOMMENDS
New Zealand Platinum Adventure Package
Join other fellow backpackers for a week of fun, excitement and the chance to make new friends at the very start of your working holiday in New Zealand.
This package includes 7 nights of accommodation in a hostel, as well as a 7-day adventure-packed program in Auckland.
AUCKLAND
Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand! Today is the recommended arrival date. Once you land in Auckland, access the shuttle service to take you to your home for the next week. Check in and rest up or explore the city area. Your activity week with the group starts tomorrow!
Kick off your day with a City Walking Tour and get to know Auckland on foot, starting at the buzzing Viaduct Harbour – packed with waterfront views, cool cafés, and plenty of spots to grab a cheap bite or coffee. From there, head into the SkyCity Auckland precinct to check out the iconic Sky Tower, with the option to head up for epic panoramic views or even take on the SkyWalk or SkyJump if you’re feeling adventurous (own cost).
Wind things down with a stroll through the leafy Albert Park, perfect for a chill break or meeting fellow travellers before, wrapping up the day with a rooftop hangout over dinner, soaking in a stunning sunset over the city.
Launch your New Zealand adventure with a hands-on orientation – we’ll help you set up bank accounts, SIM cards, and give job support so you’re ready to hit the ground running. From 8:00 PM join the guided night out visiting four of the city’s best bars and clubs. Enjoy 4 free drinks, party games, DJs, and drink specials as you explore the nightlife with a great group of travellers. A fun and social night, perfect for meeting new people and experiencing the city’s party scene.
Over 3 nights and 4 unforgettable days, dive into the very best of New Zealand’s Far North – where rugged coastlines, golden beaches, and laid-back Kiwi vibes set the scene for an epic adventure.
Your journey kicks off with a scenic InterCity bus ride from Auckland to Whangārei, where you’ll meet your local guides and head north to explore this remote paradise. With access to multiple beaches across two coastlines, you’ll always be surfing the best conditions, whether you’re a complete beginner or building confidence, with sessions tailored to the swell, tides, and weather.
Beyond the waves, experience everything from beachside yoga and coastal road trips to chasing sunsets and relaxing by the ocean with your group. Midway through the trip, swap your surfboard for an unforgettable day exploring the top of New Zealand – standing at Cape Reinga where two oceans collide, swimming at secluded beaches, and sandboarding down the towering Te Paki dunes.
On your final day, squeeze in one last sunrise surf before heading back to Auckland for your final night, where you’ll unwind with your new mates, sharing stories, laughs, and memories from an incredible Far North escape.
Join us for coffee, pastries, and good vibes at our office, where the local team will catch you up on any onward travel info, give extra support, and celebrate an unforgettable week of adventures, sun, and new friends!
Find the package that fits you best!
Services / Programs |
NZ Platinum |
NZ Gold Plus |
NZ Gold |
NZ Basic |
Visa guidance |
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Accommodation |
7 nights | 4 nights | 2 nights | None |
Airport transfer |
Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Job support |
Yes | Yes | Yes | General resources provided |
Duration of support |
Up to 23 months | Up to 23 months | Up to 23 months | Up to 23 months |
7-day adventure tour
7 nights dorm share accommodation at a hostel in Auckland
Airport shuttle to accommodation
Step by step guidance on how to apply for a Working Holiday Visa
Instructions to set up a New Zealand bank account prior to arrival, MasterCard debit card issued to members
Access to Online Job Board and Online Members Portal (provided 3 weeks before your arrival)
New Zealand orientation and information session upon arrival
Registration for New Zealand IRD Number
12 months full access to the members only Recruitment Agency and National Online Job Database
Private mailbox with mail holding and forwarding anywhere in New Zealand
Free internet access in the local office
FREE use of phone in the office for job and general inquiries, FREE photocopying and scanning
Weekly ice breaker / welcome drinks – FREE drink and snacks
Assistance with finding long-term accommodation (Sydney and Melbourne)
What’s not included:
Flight tickets and other fees
Visa fees (approximately $770 NZD)
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal expenses
TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM:
- You are a Canadian citizen with a valid Canadian passport
- You must be between the ages of 18 and 35 (and must not turn 36 before New Zealand issues you your working holiday visa)
- Have a clean police record
- Have never previously entered New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa
- Have a minimum of $4,200 NZD in available funds
- Medical insurance for the duration of your entire trip
- Meet health and character requirements
- You must not bring any dependent children with you
Note: With the Working Holiday Visa, you are allowed to stay in New Zealand for either up to 12 months or 23 months. This package includes services for up to 23 months. If you apply for the visa for up to 23 months, you will have to provide a medical exam/x-ray during your visa application.
6 Unique Things to Experience in New Zealand:
TAMAKI MAORI VILLAGE – NORTH ISLAND
Ka Mate Ka Mate Ka Ora Ka Ora! Enjoy a wonderful evening of Hangi, History and Haka on this great night time tour of a traditional Maori village. You’ll have the Haka in your head for ages afterwards!
TANDEM SKYDIVE – QUEENSTOWN
Tandem Skydive from 15000, 12000 or 9000 feet and freefall at 124kph over New Zealand’s most scenic resort – Queenstown. Once the chute opens, you’ll have time to marvel at the stunning mountain landscapes as you glide peacefully to the ground.
AJ HACKET BUNGY – QUEENSTOWN
Where the bungy phenomenon all began and with the people who started it. Bungy options are available for every level of adrenaline junkie from the original 141ft Kawarau Bridge leap to the massive 439ft Nevis Highwire.
MILFORD SOUND – SOUTH ISLAND
Milford Sound is a must see as it’s tagged as the “most beautiful place in New Zealand” and the “eighth wonder of the world.” The Sound is actually a fjord surrounded by high rainforest-covered cliffs. Rainfall is some of the highest in the world and temporary waterfalls cascade up to 328 feet into the water. Watch out for seals, penguins and dolphins, who are regular visitors to the area.
WAITOMO GLOWORM CAVES – NORTH ISLAND
World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, these caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. The glow worm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light while experts guide you through and inform you of their significance.
RANGITOTO ISLAND – NEAR AUCKLAND
Rangitoto is Auckland’s most iconic island, with its distinctive symmetrical cone and superb location just off the coast. Only a short scenic ferry ride across the harbour from downtown Auckland, the island is a favourite destination for hikers and day-trippers. Emerging unexpectedly from the sea some 600 years ago, it is the youngest and largest volcano in the Auckland volcanic field.
If you’re travelling for the first time and would like more support, you’ll never feel alone in a new country with our program. Whether it’s a list of all the things you need to do at tax time or simply a friendly face… Our program is ideal for Canadian travelers moving to New Zealand for the first time, just like the well-traveled explorer.
If you’re looking for a memorable travel experience that connects you with employment opportunities and provides 24/7 support, then choose Go International’s Working Holiday Program in New Zealand.
This totally depends on your own preferences. All our packages include the service and assistance from Go International before your departure and our New Zealand partner in Auckland.
Gold Package: Service and assistance, plus airport shuttle and first 2 nights in the hostel.
Gold Plus Package: Service and assistance, plus airport shuttle and first 4 nights in the hostel.
Platinum Package: All above, 7 nights in the hostel and a fun-filled week of adventure!
We can’t guarantee you a job, however Go International and our team in New Zealand will do everything to assist you with finding one as soon as possible!
The three magic words for finding a job in New Zealand are: flexibility, openness and initiative. As long as you are open to making small compromises, potentially move to a different place for your dream job and put yourself out there, your chances of getting a job quickly are very high!
We have a database of reputable employers in the New Zealand travel and hospitality industry who have a great reputation for providing travelers with rewarding work experiences.
The Working Holiday visa is an open work permit, which means that you can apply for any job you are interested in and qualified for.
Employers are usually a little bit reluctant to hire staff for a limited amount of time. But New Zealand has the advantage of offering the work permit for up to 23 months, which gives you more time to work for one employer if you are interested in this experience.
We recommend to keep you expectations low and apply for entry level / lower than your Canadian qualification jobs to start off with.
As a Canadian citizen, you can apply either for a 12 months or 23 months work permit in New Zealand. If you apply for a 23-month visa, you must provide a General Medical Certificate. Just remember that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and make sure that you have enough time to explore the beauty that is New Zealand!
New Zealand is a great working holiday destination to make friends easily! You will meet fellow backpackers at every corner, potentially already on your flight – just keep your eyes open for the wanderlust in their eyes.
Also at work, you will develop close bonds with many of your workmates— friendships that will last for a lifetime. This is your time for an adventure, to invent yourself new and to determine the path of your next 12 months. Just try to be open and you will have new friends before you realize it!
Also at work, you will develop close bonds with many of your workmates— friendships that will last for a lifetime. This is your time for an adventure, to invent yourself new and to determine the path of your next 12 months. Just try to be open and you will have new friends before you realize it!
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