Why teach in Aotearoa New Zealand?
In Aotearoa New Zealand, teachers hold a trusted position in society. Together as a profession they have high standards of integrity, conduct, competence and quality teaching practice. Find out why you should join the profession.
Join a trusted and respected profession
By deciding to teach in NZ, you are joining the 116,356 strong profession. There are a number of important things you must do, and should know, when making the move.
We’ve worked closely with the Ministry of Education to develop a range of resources to support you. Start with the Overseas Teacher Journey video below or explore the accompanying PDF guide and webpage for more detail.
Overseas Teacher Journey
Watch this video for an overview of the processes you need to go through to teach in New Zealand.
Getting started
Teachers in Aotearoa New Zealand are registered and certificated to ensure that every child and young person has access to qualified, skilled, and caring educators.
To practice as a teacher in NZ, you must follow the Code of Professional Responsibility and Standards for the Teaching Profession. This protects the mana of teaching and strengthen the profession. If you're ready to begin your teaching journey, follow the steps below to get started as an overseas-trained teacher in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The process of moving to New Zealand to teach
Get your teaching qualification recognised
Your overseas teaching qualification needs to be evaluated by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
Tip
Follow this link to find more information about the qualification recognition process and the documents you need to include with your application.
Get registered and certificated
To teach in New Zealand, you need to register as a teacher and apply for a practising certificate with the Teaching Council.
Tips
- Learn how to register as an overseas-trained teacher.
- If you have received an employment offer to teach at a New Zealand school, kura or early childhood centre, let NZQA and the Teaching Council know so your application can be fast tracked. It is a priority to get teachers registered and certified when they have a definite job offer.
Look for a teaching job
The Education Gazette advertises all teaching positions in New Zealand.
Tips
- Use this link to search New Zealand teacher vacancies.
- You can use filters to find teaching positions that suit your skills and experience in the vacancies section.
- If you're required to do a refresh programme, you may be required to show confirmation of a job offer prior to gaining registration and certification with the refresh plan. A Registration Officer will help you if this applies.
Apply for a visa
Once you have a Teaching IQA and are registered to teach in New Zealand, you may apply for a valid work visa.
Tips
- You must apply for your visa through Immigration New Zealand.
- Explore visa options through the Immigration New Zealand website.
Actions for when you arrive
There are actions you will need to take and there are supports available to help you start your teaching career in New Zealand.
Tips
- You will need to request a salary assessment through Education Payroll (and provide your IQA from step one)
- You may be eligible for an Overseas Relocation Grant. This grant covers certain relocation costs of up NZD$10,000. Find out more about the Overseas Relocation Grant through the Education Workforce website.
- To help smooth the transition to teaching in New Zealand, Tātai Aho Rau Core Education has introductory webinars and programmes to support your future PLD in New Zealand. This also includes a Mentor Support Programme to help start your teaching career in New Zealand successfully.
119,992
total certificated teachers and Limited Authority to Teach (LAT) holders
48,318
work in the primary sector
98,516
teachers hold a current full practising certificate (82%)
31,243
work in the early childhood sector
18,367
teachers hold a current provisional practising certificate (15%)
35,222
work in the secondary sector
3,109
people hold Limited Authority to Teach (3%)
3,493
work across years
Your portal: My Rawa
Starting out as a teacher is exciting, and sometimes a little overwhelming - but you’re not alone. My Rawa is your go-to space for tailored support, practical tools, and guidance to help you feel confident and connected.