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As per the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the adult minimum wage for restaurant jobs in New Zealand is NZ$24.50 per hour from 1 April 2026. All employees aged 16 and over must receive at least this rate for every hour worked, including casual shifts in hospitality.

As per Immigration New Zealand, holders of an Accredited Employer Work Visa can work in restaurant roles for up to three years if their employer holds accreditation. Applicants must have a job offer paying at least NZ$24.50 per hour and meet the 2026 median wage threshold of NZ$29.66 per hour for some roles.

As per the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, no formal education certificate is required for entry-level restaurant positions such as waiter or kitchen hand in 2026. However, a current Food Safety Supervisor certificate is mandatory under the Food Act 2014 for anyone handling food preparation.

As per Immigration New Zealand, applicants must provide a valid passport, job offer letter, and proof of qualifications such as a food safety certificate when applying for a work visa in 2026. New Zealand citizens only need a CV and right-to-work confirmation for local applications.