The 6 most in demand alternative trade jobs in NZ

Pay: $90-$110k once licensed 

Education: 4 year Bachelor of Surveying (BSurv) degree from the University of Otago. 

Job prospects: Very good (Green List tier 1)

Becoming a surveyor is a great option for people with good attention to detail, a preference for working outside and an interest in the construction industry. 

Surveyors conduct surveys to figure out the location of stuff like boundaries, structures and topographic features. They also work with councils to ensure projects tick all the right boxes, then prepare consent applications. 

The job involves time in an office and outdoors at construction, mining or rural sites – as well as liaising with clients and councils. To become fully licensed you’ll need to get two years of practical experience, obtain a certificate of competency from Survey and Spatial New Zealand then apply for a licence with the Cadastral Surveyors Licencing Board of New Zealand.

Pay: $48K-$65K entry level (up to $140,000+ once you progress)

Education: 4 year apprenticeship

Job prospects: Very good (Green List tier 1)

Mechanical engineers are generalists who need a broad range of skills, from welding, to fabrication, machining and fitting. They may work in service and repair, fitting and assembly, manufacturing, or fabrication. While the starting pay is on the low end, there are plenty of chances to progress into leading hand, or supervisor roles that can pay up to $140,000+. The work can be physically demanding, but generally hours are regular 9-5, with some shift work. Most work in factories, power plants or workshops.

To get started you’ll need to complete a Mechanical Engineering Level 4 apprenticeship via an organisation like ATNZ and qualifications, which takes 48 months and involves work experience and self study online. 

Pay: $25 to $70+ an hour

Education: Driver’s license with specific classes & endorsements (see below)

Job prospects: good (Green List tier 2)

There’s high demand for a number of roles operating heavy machinery, including backhoes, bulldozers, excavators, graders, cranes, hoists and lifters. These roles typically require some technical skill, but it’s usually possible to learn this on the job (although experienced candidates will always be preferred. 

Most of these roles require a driver’s license, usually with certain classes and endorsements to suit the type of vehicle you’ll be operating – if you plan to progress there are some trade qualifications available. 

Pay: $24 to $44+ per hour

Education: Four year apprenticeship required. 

Job prospects: good (Green List tier 2)

Automotive electricians test, install and fix the electrical systems and components in vehicles. They often work in garages and workshops, but may also be employed by mines or other large industrial employers. 

To become an automotive electrician you’ll usually need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering (Level 4) via a training organization like MITO. 

Pay: $25 to $53 per hour

Education: Two to five year apprenticeship required

Job prospects: good (Green List tier 2)

Most gasfitters are also qualified drainlayers and plumbers as these are complimentary skills, but they don’t have to be done together. In fact, gasfitters are in high demand. They often work on homes and commercial buildings, but there’s increasing demand for gasfitters with experience working on campervans and caravans. 

To become a gasfitter you’ll need to complete a level 4 apprenticeship overseen by an organisation like ICE or Te Pūkenga. To complete this qualification, you’ll need to be employed by a business that can deliver the apprenticeship. 

Pay: Minimum wage to $50+ per hour

Education: Four year apprenticeship encouraged

Job prospects: Very good after apprenticeship

Signmakers design, produce and install signs on buildings and structures. Qualified and experienced sign makers are in hot demand all over New Zealand right now. You can enter the profession without completing an apprenticeship or training, but employers will look much more favorably on qualified candidates. 

CompeteNZ provides an apprenticeship in partnership with employers that takes four years. Once you’re finished you’ll receive the New Zealand Certificate Signmaking (Level 4).