Guide
CV Builder New Zealand
New Zealand employers expect a CV, not a US-style resume, with its own conventions around length, references, and how overseas qualifications and work rights are presented. Here's what's actually different, and how to build a CV that fits.
New Zealand CV Format: What's Different
NZ employers typically expect a CV of 2-3 pages, longer than a US one-page resume norm but similar to Australia and the UK. No photo, and Kiwi/British English spelling (organisation, not organization) is standard. "References available on request" is still common and acceptable, unlike in some other markets where recruiters expect references listed directly.
- 2-3 pages is standard, not penalised like an overly-long US resume would be
- No photo, and avoid stating age, marital status, or other personal details beyond contact info
- Use NZ/British English spelling throughout
- A short personal statement or summary at the top is expected, similar to the UK convention
If You're a Skilled Migrant: State Your Visa Status Clearly
New Zealand's main skilled-migration pathway is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), which requires an accredited employer and, for many roles, matches against New Zealand's skill-shortage lists. If you hold or are eligible for a relevant visa, state it clearly near your contact details, the same way you would in Australia or the UK, so recruiters don't need to ask before considering your application.
Overseas Qualifications: Note Recognition Status
For regulated professions, or where a qualification's local equivalence isn't obvious, note whether your qualification has been assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) or your profession's local registration body. If you haven't had it assessed yet, it's fine to note that it's in progress, this is a normal part of the process for many skilled migrants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I call it a CV or a resume for New Zealand jobs?
CV. New Zealand, like the UK and Australia, uses "CV" as the standard term, and it functions the same way a US-style resume does elsewhere.
How long should a New Zealand CV be?
2-3 pages is standard for most roles, longer than a US one-page resume convention. Don't pad it unnecessarily, but don't force everything onto one page either.
Do I need my qualifications assessed before applying for jobs in NZ?
Not always before applying, but for regulated professions or where local equivalence isn't obvious, noting your NZQA assessment status (completed, in progress, or not yet started) on your CV helps set clear expectations with employers.
What visa should I mention if I'm applying from overseas?
If you hold or are eligible for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or another relevant category, state it clearly near your contact details so recruiters have that information upfront.
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