New Zealand is facing a tight labour market, with skill shortages across like the construction industry, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. As local talent pools fail to meet demand, hiring skilled workers from overseas is an attractive solution for employers. However, international recruitment comes with unique challenges. This article outlines effective strategies to attract skilled migrant workers to New Zealand.
Understanding New Zealand's Labour Market Needs
Despite the latest unemployment rates hovering around 4%, New Zealand continues to grapple with a limited local talent pool. Skill shortages are particularly acute in infrastructure-related sectors such as construction and engineering, which are seeing a surge in major public and private projects. The technology sector is also experiencing a talent crunch, while the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the shortfall in healthcare workers.
Adding to the complexity of the situation are regional differences. Auckland, for instance, is facing chronic shortages as projects centralise amid rapid population growth. This also includes administration & office support.
Meanwhile, the reconstruction efforts in Canterbury are struggling to find enough skilled construction workers in the aftermath of the earthquakes.
Understanding where skill gaps exist, both regionally and by industry, allows employers to strategically target overseas recruits who can fill urgent vacancies.
Researching Source Countries for Recruitment
Researching Source Countries for Recruitment
Once priority skills needs are mapped, research countries with surplus skilled workers that match New Zealand’s gaps. This enables tailored outreach to qualified candidates that fit current demand.
For construction and infrastructure projects, target recruiting from the Philippines, India, China, and Pacific Island nations where many workers have relevant skills but lack local opportunities. For healthcare roles, experienced nurses can be sourced from the Philippines and India to address understaffing.
Meanwhile, technology roles remain in high demand globally, so casting a wide net helps access overseas professionals eager to relocate.
When researching source countries, it's also important to assess factors like education systems, vocational training, language abilities, and cultural fit. Countries that align with New Zealand in these areas tend to have an easier transition for workers. Assessing source countries holistically ensures hired candidates are adequately qualified and primed for success in their new environment.
