QWhat is the minimum hourly rate for security guard roles in New Zealand from April 2026?
As per the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the adult minimum wage for security guards in New Zealand is NZ$24.00 per hour from 1 April 2026, with time-and-a-half for the first three hours of overtime on any day and double time thereafter.
QDo overseas applicants need a specific visa to work as a security guard in New Zealand in 2026?
As per Immigration New Zealand, applicants from visa-waiver countries must obtain a work visa under the Straight to Work Visa category before starting security guard employment, with a minimum job offer of NZ$29.66 per hour or NZ$61,890 per year for 2026.
QWhat licence is mandatory to apply for security guard jobs in New Zealand?
As per New Zealand Police, every security guard must hold a current Certificate of Approval under the Private Security Personnel Licensing Authority, which requires a NZ$316.50 application fee and a criminal history check valid for three years.
QHow many hours per week can a security guard legally work in New Zealand without special approval?
As per the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, security guards may work up to 40 ordinary hours per week, with any hours above that paid at overtime rates and a minimum 11-hour break between shifts required under the Employment Relations Act.