Top remote work opportunities in NZ

The remote work boom in NZ is expanding fast, reaching into more industries than ever before. Here are the top sectors leading the charge in flexible work options:

New Zealand’s tech talent shortage has pushed IT companies to accommodate more remote roles. Whether it’s software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, or project management, top IT players are actively hiring for remote positions across the country. Look at companies like ServiceNow, Xero, Outlier AI, and Halter. It’s the dream setup — work from anywhere and get the chance to grow with some of the best in the industry.

Find out what it’s like to work in IT.

Marketing's gone digital, and that’s made working from home a lot easier. Lots of businesses are on the hunt for contractors who can step in for a few months without the hassle of full-time hires or office space. Whether it’s managing social media, boosting SEO, or analysing data, these short-term gigs offer flexibility for both sides. 

Here are five types of digital marketing jobs you’ll find on Trade Me.

Do you have expertise in business strategy, HR, or finance? Remote consulting jobs in NZ are in high demand, and they offer plenty of flexibility. You’ll be able to advise companies from the comfort of your own home, whether you're helping them strategise or providing expert insights — it’s consulting without the commute.

Find out more about management consulting. 

More and more businesses are realising that customer support doesn’t require a physical office. Whether you’re answering calls, resolving queries via chat, or handling emails, remote customer support roles are a great way to start working from home. Plus, these roles often come with flexible hours, so you can fit your schedule around your life – not the other way around.

The six most important skills for customer service jobs.

Want more inspiration? Here are 71 jobs that are perfectly suited to working from home. 

Whether you’re interested in full-time or part-time roles, jump on Trade Me Jobs. There, you can easily filter your search to include only remote positions. From tech jobs to marketing gigs, there’s something for everyone. 

Pro tip: Look out for listings that specify "remote" or "work from home". But even if there’s a good job where it’s not mentioned, don’t be afraid to contact the employer directly. Many employers are open to remote work if it’s for the right candidate. 

Want to ask your current employer for some work-from-home days? Here’s how to make a successful, flexible working request.

Getting hired for a remote job isn’t too different from applying for an office-based role. However, when you’re working solo, there’s a bit more trust involved. So, here’s what you need to do to make sure your application stands out.

When applying for remote roles, your CV needs to reflect your ability to work independently. Highlight any previous experience you have working remotely, or at least show how your skills and experience align with the needs of a remote position. Show that you're a self-starter, skilled with remote tools (like Zoom, Slack, or Trello), and good at managing your own time will work in your favour.
Here are the most important skills for your NZ CV.

Remote work employers want to know that you’re disciplined, reliable, and can thrive without direct supervision. If you’ve worked from home before, share specific examples that show your ability to stay productive and keep communication clear. Remember, a little personality goes a long way – let them know why remote work is your ideal setup.
Check out these six attention-grabbing cover letter intros.

For pretty much all remote roles, being comfortable with technology is a must. So, whether you’re familiar with project management tools, cloud software, or communication platforms, be sure to mention these in your CV and cover letter. It shows you’re ready to hit the ground running.

Get the digital skills you need, for free.

Like anything in life, remote work in NZ has its highs and lows. But for many, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Here’s a look at both sides of the coin:

• Flexibility: No more strict office hours or stressful commutes – you can work when you’re most productive, whether that’s early mornings or late nights. Of course, you might need to be online during certain hours for meetings or team collaboration, but you have more freedom. You’ll be able to take your dog for a walk, hang out the washing or even take the kids to swimming practice — when you otherwise wouldn’t have been able to. 

• Better work-life balance: Working remotely can help you achieve a better balance between your job and personal life. Without the daily grind of commuting, you can spend more time with your family, get outdoors, or just relax at home, making you feel less burnt out at the end of each week. 

Signs of burnout and how to avoid it.

• Save money: No need to buy expensive office clothes or spend money on gas or public transport. Working from home means more savings in your pocket – which could be the perfect excuse for that weekend getaway to the beach (or wherever your heart desires).

• The temptation of the couch: Let’s be honest – working from home can be a challenge if you’re not disciplined. It’s easy to get distracted by the TV, your bed, or the laundry that’s staring at you. The key is to set up a dedicated workspace and stick to a routine.

• Feeling isolated: Some people miss the social interaction of a traditional office. While remote work can be liberating, it can also feel a bit lonely at times. Make sure to stay connected with colleagues through virtual meetings and catch-ups to combat the isolation.

• Overworking: When your office is also your home, it can be hard to switch off. One of the challenges of remote work is knowing when to stop working for the day. Set boundaries by creating a clear start and end to your workday and sticking to it.