Top student jobs in NZ

You’ll want a job that ticks a few boxes: flexible hours, a glimpse into the real world, and something that’ll make your CV stand out. Here are some of the best options:

• Retail jobs: Whether you’re folding clothes, working the register, or helping customers, retail is flexible and accessible for students. Most stores offer weekend or evening shifts, so you can easily fit them around your study timetable. Plus, it’s a great way to learn some real-world people skills.

Learn the difference between permanent, casual and fixed-term contracts in NZ. 

• Hospitality: If you’ve got the gift of gab and can juggle a tray like a pro, working in a café, bar, or restaurant is a classic gig for tertiary students. The best part? It’s often busy during weekends or evenings, so it’s easy to slot in hours. 

How to write a good hospitality CV. 

• Tutoring: If you're acing your courses, why not help others out? Tutoring is a flexible job that can earn you good money while making use of your academic strengths. Whether it's Maths, English, or a language, you can set your own hours and work with students at both university and school, who need your help.

List your tutoring services on Trade Me. 

• Admin roles: Office admin roles might not sound glamorous, but they’re perfect for building up some office experience while still working around your uni hours. Many businesses need part-time help with filing, answering calls, and general admin tasks. You’ll learn valuable skills for the future, and it’s all done during regular office hours, so you won’t be working late into the night.

Or check out these ten entry-level jobs to kickstart your career. 

No commute? No problem. With the rise of remote work, there’s a whole range of online student jobs in NZ that you can do from the comfort of your couch (or even a local café, if you feel fancy). Here are some solid online gigs to consider:

• Freelance writing or editing: Got a way with words? Freelance writing or editing is a sweet job for uni students who want to make some money while working on their own schedule. You can write blog posts, web content, or social media copy from anywhere, and you can often choose how much work you want to take on. Plus, the more you do, the better you get, which is perfect for your future career.

Where to find great copywriting jobs in NZ. 

• Virtual assistant: If you’re organised and have a knack for keeping things running smoothly, virtual assistant work might be right up your alley. You’ll help businesses with tasks like managing emails, scheduling meetings, or handling customer queries — all from the comfort of home. It’s flexible and pays well for the work involved.

• Online surveys and market research: Sure, it’s not going to pay the rent, but completing online surveys can be a super easy way to top up your income. Many companies are willing to pay for your opinion, and you can do it on your own time, whether you're chilling between study sessions or enjoying a coffee break.

Check out our eight side hustle ideas to bring in extra money. 

When uni breaks hit, it’s the perfect time to score a seasonal gig. These jobs tend to be short-term, which means you can earn some decent cash without committing to long hours during the semester.

• Holiday jobs: Christmas and New Year mean retailers, event organisers, and hospitality businesses are in major need of extra help. This is the time to grab some serious work hours and make some good money. Whether it’s helping at the till, serving food, or assisting with events, holiday work is ideal for students looking to make the most of their time off.

How to find seasonal work in NZ. 

• Fruit picking: Yes, it’s physical, but fruit picking is one of those seasonal jobs that can pay really well, especially during the summer months. Plus, it’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the New Zealand countryside. Many farms offer accommodation and meals, so it’s a chance to make some cash while living rural for a few weeks.

See six nature jobs you can do in NZ. 

• Summer festival work: If you’re into music or food, working at a summer festival can be the best of both worlds. Whether you’re working as security, helping at food stalls, or selling tickets, these short-term gigs offer flexible hours and are great for anyone looking to have a blast while earning money.

Here are nine of the best summer jobs on offer in NZ.

Balancing work and study is a skill you can totally master. Here are some practical tips for managing it all without losing your mind:

• Use a planner: Grab a paper planner (or use an app like Google Calendar) to keep track of assignments, exams, and your work hours. It’ll help you see your schedule at a glance and avoid double-booking yourself. Plus, crossing off tasks is super satisfying.

• Time blocking: Block out chunks of time for study and work. It’s a game-changer for keeping your day structured, especially when you have deadlines and shifts to juggle. You’ll feel less overwhelmed and more in control.

• Set realistic goals: We all want to be superheroes, but sometimes you need to be real with yourself. Don’t overbook your schedule. Set achievable goals, like studying for two hours or finishing a shift without running yourself into the ground. Break tasks down into smaller steps to make them feel less daunting.

• Take breaks: Don’t forget to take a breather. Overworking yourself can lead to burnout. Schedule in some chill time, whether it’s a quick walk or just zoning out to your favourite playlist. Your brain will thank you for it.