Working in New Zealand

The Land of the Long White Cloud has so much to offer. With an enviable lifestyle, vibrant cities and friendly culture, New Zealand lures workers from across the globe.

Local professional accounting body

Suitable qualifications to practice as an accountant or auditor include certificates, degrees, diplomas, registration or similar qualifications in accounting and auditing. These qualifications do not necessarily have to be obtained in New Zealand, and do not apply to people practising as a secretary, bookkeeper or cost consultant. Anyone using those designations, though, cannot give the impression that they are an accountant or an auditor.

An auditor must be a chartered accountant or an approved member, fellow or associate of an overseas approved association of accountants (including CPA Australia). Only members of the New Zealand Society of Accountants or members, fellows or associates of an approved association of Commonwealth accountants (such as CPA Australia) can be appointed as auditors of Maori incorporations, incorporated runanga, and other societies and credit unions.

The activities of investment advisers and investment brokers are regulated by the amended Securities Markets Act 1988. An investment adviser is a person who, in the course of the person's business or employment, gives investment advice.

New Zealand does not require registration of tax advisers. Tax practitioners can choose to register with the Inland Revenue Department as tax agents, but they are not required to register in order to practise as a tax agent.

New Zealand's business environment

New Zealand is strongly focused on tourism and primary industries like the dairy sector, although it does have a small technology sector. It is among the most business-friendly country in the world and is open to investment and expansion.

Employment opportunities

Graduates who major in finance, accounting or business are recruited on a yearly basis. Most of the large accounting firms conduct annual recruitment exercises for final year accounting students from overseas universities. Strong English skills are a must.

Working conditions and lifestyle

Many large companies are based in Auckland, the most populous city, which is a vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis.

Work permits

There is a work in residence provision which allows temporary employment as a step to gaining permanent residence. There are also temporary work permits available where an individual has a job offer from a New Zealand employer, but each case is assessed on an individual basis.