Teaching Jobs in New Zealand 2026 – Apply Now

New Zealand faces a significant shortage of teachers, particularly in STEM subjects, Te Reo Māori, and Kaupapa Māori education. In our experience, qualified teachers from abroad who register with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa can access full-time roles, competitive salaries, and relocation grants up to NZ$10,000.

Why Teach in New Zealand?

Teaching in New Zealand offers more than a job it provides a lifestyle. With stunning landscapes, a relaxed pace, and a culture that values work-life balance, teachers can enjoy both professional growth and personal well-being. Schools across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and rural areas actively seek teachers in both primary and secondary sectors.

Pro Tip: Teachers skilled in STEM, Te Reo Māori, or special education are in particularly high demand.

Eligibility Requirements for Teachers

To work in New Zealand, teachers must meet specific requirements:

1. Approved Qualifications: Must hold a New Zealand Initial Teacher Education (ITE) qualification or have overseas qualifications assessed by New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
2. Registration: Apply for a practising certificate from the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
3. Police Vetting: Provide background checks from New Zealand Police and any country where you have lived for more than 12 months.
4. Language Competency: Fluency in English and/or te reo Māori is mandatory. Evidence includes language tests or recognized qualifications.
5. Commitment to Māori Values: Demonstrate adherence to Ngā Tikanga Matatika and actively practice te reo me ngā tikanga Māori.
6. Teaching Experience: Provide proof of experience, including the number of years taught and subject expertise.

Ongoing Teaching Job Opportunities

Here are some active teaching roles in New Zealand:

Benefits of Teaching Jobs in New Zealand

1. Competitive Salary Packages Teachers in New Zealand earn attractive salaries with periodic increments and allowances.
2. Visa Sponsorship Opportunities Many schools and institutions assist qualified foreign teachers with work visas and residency pathways.
3. High Demand for Qualified Teachers Subjects like STEM, English, and special education have strong demand nationwide.
4. Professional Development Access to training programs, workshops, and career growth opportunities in the education sector.
5. Work-Life Balance New Zealand emphasizes balanced working hours and teacher wellbeing.
6. Multicultural Environment Work with diverse student populations and international colleagues.
7. Job Security – Teaching positions often come with long-term contracts, especially in public schools.
8. Opportunity to Make an Impact Contribute to shaping the education and development of young learners.
9. Relocation Support Some schools provide guidance on housing, travel, and settling into New Zealand.
10. Pathway to Permanent Residency Teaching experience and visa sponsorship can support long-term residency applications

Top Schools Hiring

1. Clifton Terrace Model School (Wellington): ESOL & learning support roles.
2. Dalefield School (Wellington): Scale A classroom teachers (0–6 years exp).
3. Silverstream School (Wellington): Entry-level teacher positions.
4. Takanini School (Auckland): Classroom teachers & SENCo roles.
5. Blockhouse Bay Intermediate (Auckland): Food & Nutrition teacher.
6. Wakatipu High School (Otago): Full-time English teacher.
7. Freyberg High School (Wellington): RTLB positions.
8. Dilworth School: Full-time permanent English teacher.
9. Rangitoto College (Auckland): Part-time administrator role.
10. Kimi Ora Specialist School (Lower Hutt, Wellington): Teacher aides.

Teacher Salaries in New Zealand

• Primary School: NZ$55,000–95,000 per year. Starting salaries are NZ$55,000 (standard qualifications) or NZ$66,000 (higher qualifications).
• Secondary School: NZ$89,000–115,000 per year. Factors include experience, qualifications, and leadership roles.
• Additional benefits may include allowances, transport support, and relocation grants for overseas teachers.

High-Demand Subjects

• Secondary: Science, Physics, Chemistry, Economics, English, Mathematics, Te Reo Māori.
• Primary: Basic Science, Literacy, Numeracy, Music, Language Education.
• Special Needs & Rural Schools: Teachers for remote areas and specialized support roles are highly sought after.

Steps to Apply for Teaching Jobs

1. Verify your qualification with NZQA if trained overseas.
2. Register and obtain a practicing certificate from the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
3. Pass mandatory police vetting and provide certified ID proof.
4. Demonstrate language competency and commitment to Māori values.
5. Prepare a detailed CV and apply directly to schools or via recruitment agencies.

Pro Tip: Visit school offices or check official websites to apply for high-demand roles in specific regions.

Conclusion

New Zealand in 2026 faces teacher shortages across primary and secondary schools, particularly in STEM and Māori-medium education. For overseas educators, this is a golden opportunity to advance their careers, earn competitive salaries, and enjoy a unique lifestyle with excellent work-life balance.

While the profession comes with challenges such as workload, workplace culture, and potential burnout, the benefit including relocation grants, career development, and living in a spectacular country, make teaching in New Zealand an attractive option for skilled professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What qualifications are required for teachers in New Zealand?

A relevant ITE qualification assessed by NZQA and registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.

2. Can overseas teachers work in New Zealand?

Yes, provided they meet NZQA assessment, registration requirements, and police vetting.

3. What is the average salary for teachers?

Primary: NZ$55,000–NZ$95,000 per year. Secondary: NZ$89,000–NZ$115,000 per year.

4. Are relocation grants available?

Yes, overseas teachers may receive up to NZ$10,000 for moving costs.