Careers advice
Want to Be a Virtual Assistant in NZ? How to get hired
Virtual assistant jobs are a great way to get started as a remote worker - find out how to enter the industry
Last updated: 13 May 2025
Keen on a remote role that enables you work from anywhere with a decent internet connection? A Virtual Assistant (VA) job could be just what you’re looking for.
More and more Kiwi businesses, especially startups and small teams, are turning to VAs to handle admin, customer service, social media, and more. For job hunters who want flexibility and a foot in the digital door, this is a great way to get started.
Here’s what you need to know to get hired as a virtual assistant in New Zealand.
So, what does a virtual assistant do?
Virtual assistants work behind-the-scenes to keep things running smoothly. Depending on the client or employer you might be:
Managing calendars and booking meetings
Answering emails or phone calls
Running social media accounts
Doing bookkeeping or basic accounts
Helping with customer service
Writing blogs or editing content
There is always some admin work involved, but you may also get the chance to dip your toes into other parts of the business and get a sense of what you enjoy (and what you’re good at).
Want to work in your trackpants? This could be the job for you.
How to become a VA in NZ
You don’t need a fancy qualification to get started, just the right skills, the right setup, and a little hustle.
Check your skills
Great VAs are organised, detail-focused, and excellent communicators. If you’ve worked in admin, customer service, or marketing, you’re already halfway there.
Set up your workspace
A decent laptop or desktop
Reliable, fast internet
A quiet place to work
Headphones and a webcam (optional but helpful)
Build a basic portfolio
Show off what you can do—even if it’s mock work. Think:
Sample social media posts
Email templates
Task lists or calendar setups
Any past admin or freelance experience
Get listed where the jobs are
Start with platforms like Trade Me Jobs (search “virtual assistant”), and check out freelance websites like Upwork, Unicorn Factory or Fiverr. LinkedIn and local business groups are also great places to network.
Start promoting yourself
Use social media to share your services. Join VA Facebook groups, get chatting in forums, and don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth, especially in your local area.
Find your niche
Want to stand out? Specialise in a particular industry (like property or wellness) or offer specific skills like bookkeeping, email marketing, or SEO.
VAs handle a wide variety of takss.
How much can you earn?
Your pay will depend on your experience, the services you offer, and whether you’re freelancing or working through an agency.
Entry-level VAs: $20 to $30/hour
Experienced VAs: $35 to$50/hour
Specialists (think SEO, bookkeeping): $60+/hour
Full-time VAs: Between $40K and $80K per year
Some clients pay hourly, others by project, so you’ve got options when it comes to how you work.
Perks of the job
There’s a reason VA jobs are in demand:
Work from home (or anywhere, really)
Flexible hours
Choose who you work with
Learn new skills while on the job
VA jobs can be ideal if you’re juggling other responsibilities, looking for side income, or just want to break free from the 9-5. They’re often great for primary child carers who want to earn an income, while looking after their little ones.
Virtual assistant roles are a smart entry point into remote work in New Zealand. Whether you’re after full-time flexibility or a side hustle you can grow, the demand is there—and so is the opportunity.
Be sure to make a Job Profile to apply for jobs in just a few easy clicks. Better yet, ensure your Profile is Gold Tier to get top job recommendations straight to your inbox and even stand out to potential employers scanning the Trade Me Jobs Profiles database for top candidates to fill their role.
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