Truck Driver Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Looking for truck driver jobs in New Zealand? With a growing demand for skilled drivers, New Zealand offers exciting opportunities for foreigners, including visa sponsorship. 

Whether experienced or just starting, truck driving roles provide stable work, competitive pay, and the chance to live and work in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.

This guide covers the eligibility for truck driving jobs in New Zealand, highlights top logistics and freight companies offering visa sponsorship, and provides application links to get you started today.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Truck Driver Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

Candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria and requirements to qualify for truck driver jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship.

These include:

• Age Requirement: Applicants must generally be at least 18 years old to work in New Zealand. Some employers may prefer drivers with more experience.
• Valid Driver’s License: Foreign candidates must hold a valid truck driving license from their home country. For driving in New Zealand, you may need to convert your foreign license to a New Zealand one, particularly for heavy vehicle classifications (Class 2, 4, or 5).
• Work Visa Eligibility: To apply for a truck driver job, foreigners need a valid work visa, typically sponsored by an employer. The most common visa for truck drivers is the Essential Skills Work Visa, which requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer. The Accredited Employer Work Visa is another option if the employer is accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
• Health and Fitness Standards: Truck drivers are required to meet health and fitness standards as set by New Zealand law. A medical examination may be required to ensure you’re fit to operate heavy machinery. Vision and hearing tests are part of the health requirements.
• Experience and Skills: While some employers may hire entry-level drivers, most truck driver roles in New Zealand require a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant experience in operating large vehicles or driving heavy goods.
• English Proficiency: Since communication is important in driving jobs, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. This is especially true for foreign workers applying for jobs where they’ll need to interact with customers, dispatchers, or other team members.
• Police and Background Checks: Many employers will require a criminal background check to ensure candidates have no serious legal issues that could affect their ability to work in New Zealand.
• Availability and Flexibility: Truck drivers should be prepared for long hours, varying schedules, and potentially working weekends or nights. Employers may expect drivers to be flexible with route planning and working in different regions across New Zealand.
• Visa Sponsorship Process: Employers must meet certain requirements to sponsor foreign workers. This includes proving that there is a shortage of skilled drivers in New Zealand and that the foreign worker is filling a gap that cannot be met by local employees.

How to Find and Apply for Truck Driver Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Here are the steps:

Step 1: Research Available Truck Driver Jobs in New Zealand

Begin by researching truck driver job opportunities in New Zealand. Several websites and job boards are dedicated to listing these positions, such as:

• Seek.co.nz
• Trade Me Jobs
• Indeed New Zealand
• NZ Trucking Jobs

Look for job postings that specifically mention visa sponsorship as part of the role. You can filter job search results to find positions suited to foreign applicants. It’s a good idea to check the websites of major transportation and logistics companies directly for available openings.

Step 2: Ensure You Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, review the job requirements to ensure you meet the necessary criteria. This includes having a valid driver’s license, meeting health and fitness standards, and fulfilling any experience or English language requirements. 

You will need to ensure you are eligible for a work visa if the employer is offering visa sponsorship. 

Ensure your qualifications match the job description to increase your chances of being selected.

Step 3: Apply for the Truck Driver Job

Once you find a suitable job, prepare and submit your application. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific role by highlighting your relevant experience, certifications, and skills, such as:

• Years of driving experience
• Familiarity with New Zealand’s road laws
• Type of vehicles you are licensed to drive (Class 2, 4, or 5)
• Any experience in logistics or heavy goods transportation

Attach your driver’s license (translated into English if necessary) and any other required documentation, such as medical certificates or references. Follow the specific application instructions in the job listing.

Step 4: Interview Process

If your application is successful, you will be invited to an interview. This may be conducted virtually or in person, depending on the employer. 

Prepare to discuss your driving experience, knowledge of safety regulations, and ability to handle long hours or long-distance driving. Be ready to answer questions about your adaptability to New Zealand’s road conditions and work culture.

Step 5: Receive Job Offer and Visa Sponsorship

If you pass the interview stage, the employer may offer you a formal job offer letter. Upon acceptance, the employer will begin the visa sponsorship process. 

This typically involves:

• Submitting an application for an Essential Skills Work Visa or Accredited Employer Work Visa through Immigration New Zealand.
• Providing evidence that they have been unable to fill the position with local workers.
• Paying for any associated visa application fees.

Ensure to work closely with your employer to ensure that all the necessary documents are provided to Immigration New Zealand.

Step 6: Apply for a Work Visa

Once your job offer is confirmed, you will need to apply for a work visa. Your employer will assist you in this process, as they will need to provide a job offer letter and any other documents to support your visa application. 

You’ll need to submit personal documents such as:

• Passport
• Proof of qualifications (driver’s license, experience)
• Health and fitness documentation
• Police clearance (if required)

The visa application process can take a few weeks, so be patient while your application is processed.

Step 7: Prepare for Your Move to New Zealand

Once your visa is approved, you can make preparations to move to New Zealand. This includes booking your flight, arranging accommodation, and familiarizing yourself with New Zealand’s driving laws and road conditions. 

Ensure you learn about the culture and lifestyle to ensure a smooth transition when you arrive.

Step 8: Start Your Job and Enjoy Your New Career

After arriving in New Zealand, report to your employer on your start date. You may be required to undergo an orientation or training program to familiarize yourself with company procedures, equipment, and New Zealand road laws. 

From there, you can begin your new career as a truck driver, enjoying the stability and opportunities that come with visa sponsorship and employment in New Zealand’s transport industry.

Top Logistics and Freight Companies Offering Truck Driver Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the top logistics and freight companies offering truck driving jobs in New Zealand as a foreigner:

Mainfreight

Mainfreight is a leading logistics and freight company in New Zealand, offering integrated services in transport, warehousing, and logistics management..

Mainfreight actively sponsors foreign workers for truck driver roles through the Essential Skills Work Visa or Accredited Employer Work Visa. They look for skilled drivers who meet the experience and qualification requirements.

Applicants must have a valid international driving license, and preferably experience in long-distance or heavy vehicle transportation. Health checks and English language proficiency are required.

Interested candidates can visit Mainfreight’s career page at Mainfreight Careers to view available truck driver positions and apply directly for jobs offering visa sponsorship.

Toll New Zealand

Toll New Zealand is one of the country’s largest logistics and transportation companies, offering services in road, rail, and sea freight.

Toll New Zealand offers visa sponsorship to foreign truck drivers, especially for roles requiring heavy vehicle driving skills. They support applications for the Essential Skills Work Visa for experienced drivers.

Foreign applicants should have a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant driving experience, a valid truck driving license, and meet New Zealand’s health and safety standards.

To explore job opportunities, visit the Toll New Zealand Careers page, where you can apply for positions that offer visa sponsorship.

Fliway Group

Fliway Group is a prominent New Zealand-based logistics company providing end-to-end supply chain solutions, including freight, warehousing, and logistics. 

Fliway Group offers visa sponsorship for skilled truck drivers from overseas to meet the growing demand for transportation services. They sponsor employees under the Essential Skills Work Visa.

Candidates should hold a relevant driving license and possess a solid track record in truck driving, especially for long hauls or freight operations. A medical examination and English language skills are required.

Visit the Fliway Careers section to apply for truck driving jobs with visa sponsorship opportunities.

PBT Transport

PBT Transport is a well-established New Zealand-based transport company specializing in freight and logistics services across the country. 

PBT Transport provides visa sponsorship for skilled truck drivers to fill positions in areas where there is a shortage of local workers. They support visa applications through the Essential Skills Work Visa.

Applicants must have the necessary driving qualifications, at least 1-2 years of experience, and be able to meet New Zealand’s physical and language proficiency standards.

Interested candidates can visit the PBT Transport Vacancies page to find job openings and apply for roles offering visa sponsorship.

New Zealand Post

New Zealand Post, the national postal service provider, operates an extensive freight and logistics division. 

New Zealand Post sponsors foreign truck drivers under the Essential Skills Work Visa to fill driving and delivery roles. They have ongoing recruitment for experienced drivers to meet the demands of their freight services.

Applicants must have a clean driving record, relevant experience, and a valid driver’s license. New Zealand Post requires applicants to meet the necessary health and safety standards and demonstrate English language proficiency.

Visit New Zealand Post Careers to browse available driving roles and apply for positions offering visa sponsorship.

The Average Salary for Truck Driver Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

The average salary for truck drivers in New Zealand can vary based on experience, location, and the specific nature of the job. 

Here’s a breakdown of truck driver salaries:

National Average

• Hourly Rate: The national average is NZD 22 – 30 per hour. Experienced drivers and those working in specialized sectors (e.g., long-haul or hazardous material transport) can earn up to NZD 35 per hour.
• Annual Salary: The national average is NZD 45,000 – 60,000 per year. Experienced drivers or those in managerial or supervisory roles can earn up to NZD 75,000 – 90,000 per year.

Salary by Employment Type

• Full-time truck drivers typically earn the highest wages, with opportunities for overtime, especially in sectors like freight or logistics.
• Part-time truck drivers earn less due to fewer hours worked, averaging NZD 20 – 25 per hour.
• Casual drivers may have slightly lower pay, especially in less specialized roles, earning around NZD 18 – 22 per hour.

Salary by City and Region

• Auckland: As the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland offers some of the highest wages for truck drivers, with rates ranging from NZD 25 – 35 per hour, depending on the job and experience level.
• Wellington: Truck drivers in the capital can earn between NZD 22 – 30 per hour, with more competitive wages in the logistics and freight sectors.
• Christchurch: Drivers in Christchurch can expect to earn around NZD 20 – 28 per hour, with higher wages for long-haul or specialist drivers.
• Smaller towns/rural areas: Pay may range from NZD 18 – 24 per hour, though living costs are lower in these regions.

Salary by Experience Level

• Entry-level drivers (less than 2 years of experience) typically earn around NZD 18 – 22 per hour or NZD 40,000 – 45,000 annually.
• Mid-level drivers (2-5 years of experience) earn approximately NZD 22 – 28 per hour or NZD 50,000 – 60,000 annually.
• Experienced drivers (5+ years of experience) can earn NZD 30 – 35 per hour or NZD 65,000 – 80,000 annually, especially if they have specialized skills or work in high-demand sectors.

Salary by Industry and Division

• Freight and Logistics: This sector typically offers the highest-paying truck driver jobs in New Zealand, with salaries ranging from NZD 22 – 35 per hour, depending on the nature of the freight being transported.
• Long-haul Drivers: Long-distance drivers often earn higher wages due to the nature of the job. Average pay ranges from NZD 25 – 35 per hour, or about NZD 60,000 – 85,000 annually.
• Local Delivery Drivers: Local drivers in industries like retail or distribution may earn around NZD 20 – 25 per hour, with a yearly salary of around NZD 45,000 – 55,000.
• Hazardous Goods Drivers: Drivers transporting hazardous materials can expect a premium wage due to the specialized nature of their work, with hourly rates ranging from NZD 28 – 40.

Salary by Employment Divisions

• Heavy Vehicle (Class 5) Drivers: These drivers, who operate the largest trucks, typically earn higher wages, ranging from NZD 25 – 35 per hour, reflecting the expertise required.
• Light Vehicle (Class 2 & 4) Drivers: Those with less specialized licenses (Class 2 or 4) generally earn between NZD 20 – 28 per hour.

Benefits of Truck Driver Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the benefits:

Competitive Salary

Truck driver jobs in New Zealand offer a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and the type of driving. 

Entry-level positions generally start around NZD 22 – 30 per hour, with opportunities for experienced drivers or those in specialized sectors like long-haul or hazardous material transport earning up to NZD 35 per hour. 

The annual salary ranges from NZD 45,000 – 60,000 on average, with higher earnings available for experienced drivers or those in supervisory roles.

Visa Sponsorship Opportunities

New Zealand’s high demand for skilled truck drivers makes it an excellent opportunity for foreigners looking to work and live in the country. 

Many logistics and transport companies offer visa sponsorship under the Essential Skills Work Visa or Accredited Employer Work Visa. These visas allow foreign workers to live and work in New Zealand, often with pathways to permanent residency.

Diverse Job Opportunities

New Zealand’s transport and logistics sector offers a wide variety of driving jobs. You can work in local delivery, long-haul driving, or more specialized roles like freight logistics and hazardous materials transport. 

There is demand for truck drivers in rural areas, which often offer a quieter lifestyle, lower cost of living, and additional perks for those willing to take on less urbanized routes.

Job Stability and High Demand

Truck drivers are in high demand across New Zealand, particularly due to the country’s reliance on road freight for the transportation of goods. The growth of e-commerce and international trade has further boosted the need for skilled drivers. 

As a result, truck driving jobs offer excellent job stability, and skilled drivers are often in demand across various industries, from retail logistics to heavy goods transportation.

Opportunities for Overtime and Additional Earnings

Truck drivers in New Zealand frequently have the opportunity to earn overtime pay, typically at a 1.5x rate for hours worked beyond the regular schedule and double time for weekend or holiday shifts. 

This allows drivers to increase their earnings through flexible work schedules and additional shifts.

Health and Safety Standards

New Zealand has high standards for health and safety, ensuring that truck drivers work in safe and well-regulated environments. Employers are required to maintain vehicles to meet safety standards, and drivers benefit from comprehensive health and safety training. 

Moreover, some companies provide health insurance and well-being support as part of their employee benefits packages.

Career Growth and Training Opportunities

Truck drivers in New Zealand often have access to training and development programs to improve their skills and qualifications. 

Opportunities for career progression include moving into roles like fleet management, supervisory positions, or even starting your own logistics company. 

Furthermore, specialized certifications, such as those for driving larger vehicles or transporting dangerous goods, are supported by many employers and can further enhance earning potential.

Quality of Life in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a high quality of life, with breathtaking landscapes, a strong focus on work-life balance, and a relatively low cost of living compared to many other countries. 

For foreign truck drivers, the country’s friendly environment, safety, and excellent healthcare system make it an attractive destination for work and leisure. New Zealand’s outdoor culture means truck drivers can enjoy a variety of recreational activities when off the road.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

For foreign workers on a visa, working in New Zealand as a truck driver offers a potential pathway to permanent residency. 

After working for a few years on a sponsored visa, drivers may be eligible to apply for a residence visa, allowing them to stay in New Zealand permanently and enjoy all the benefits of being a resident.

Cultural Diversity and Supportive Communities

New Zealand is known for its cultural diversity, and as a foreign worker, you’ll find a supportive environment that values different backgrounds.

The country has a strong sense of community, and employers in the transport sector often have a collaborative approach to their teams, providing a friendly work environment for all employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do you need to drive a truck in New Zealand?

To drive a truck in New Zealand, you need a valid New Zealand driver’s license. Depending on the size of the truck, you will need a Class 2, Class 4, or Class 5 license. For specialized roles, such as transporting hazardous materials, additional certifications may be required.

How many hours do truck drivers work in New Zealand?

Truck drivers in New Zealand typically work around 40 to 60 hours per week, though this can vary depending on the type of work and location. Long-haul drivers may work longer hours and often have flexible schedules, with additional pay for overtime or weekend work.

How much are truck drivers paid in New Zealand?

Truck drivers in New Zealand earn an average of NZD 22 – 30 per hour, with annual salaries typically ranging from NZD 45,000 to 60,000. Experienced or specialized drivers, such as those in long-haul or hazardous material transport, can earn up to NZD 35 per hour or NZD 75,000 – 90,000 annually.

Is there a shortage of truck drivers in New Zealand?

Yes, New Zealand is facing a shortage of truck drivers, particularly in the long-haul and freight sectors. This shortage is largely due to the high demand for skilled drivers to transport goods across the country, making it an attractive opportunity for foreign workers seeking employment.

How long does it take to get a truck license in New Zealand?

It typically takes around 3 to 6 months to obtain a truck driver’s license in New Zealand, depending on the class of the license and the training involved. For those starting with no experience, the process may take longer, as it includes both practical and theoretical training to ensure competency.