To help outline the opportunities available, we have grouped the directories and companies by industry. This will help you register your interest with jobs more efficiently and let you laser-target precisely where you want to be working. 

​Generally, during the peak Christmas trading period, many retailers take on a lot of students to help them manage the demand. The tourism season also peaks, and we suggest looking at Backpackerboard.co.nz if you're interested in working away from home during the school holidays.

We have analysed the list below and determine these websites to be active. All are free to use. 

1. Student Job Search - the ultimate student directory, with jobs around the country available year-round. Register for free and shortlist based on what interests you. 
2. Backpackerboard.co.nz - this is a useful list for summer jobs, where the tourism and fruit harvesting seasons peak and businesses are desperate for staff. 
3. ​Trademe.co.nz Part-Time Jobs - Trade Me is best used with a filter. You can search for jobs by sector, with 'Retail' likely to be the most useful.
4. Neighbourly.co.nz - depending on where you live, there are usually listings for both wanted and jobs available. It's useful if you want to advertise your services, such as lawn mowing, baby sitting or dog walking etc.
5. Babysits - this is a growing network where you can register, build a profile and set your availability and rates

We have grouped major nationwide retailers into specific categories and linked to their job application portals. We cover all major supermarkets, fashion retailers, fast food chains and cinemas.

If you're interested in working at a particular business but don't know if they offer jobs to students, it's easy to find out. We suggest:

1. Visiting the company's website and looking for a section titled Jobs or Careers.
2. If no such section exists, Google the website and 'jobs'. For example, 'New World Jobs' leads you to foodstuffs.careercentre.net.nz, which wouldn't be so apparent without hunting around.
3. If you don't get any results, you can write directly to the company using the contact details provided. You will need to use a friendly and professional script to introduce yourself. You can edit our sample script below:

Company: Garden Centre, Auckland

To: <insert email of company>
Subject: Student Job Opportunities

Hi there

I’m Christopher, a Year 13 student from North Auckland High School and am looking for part-time work. I have long been a customer at your garden centre and would love to know if you're hiring part-time or for the school holiday period?

I’m available weekends, which I anticipate is your really busy period, and can start as early as needed. I’m a reliable, fast-learning, hard-working and trustworthy 17-year-old.

If you would like to meet me, I’m available immediately – my number/Whatsapp is 021 511 001. I look forward to your response.

Kind regards, 
Christopher Walsh

Special Thanks: MoneyHub would like to thank Kay Wallace, HOD Careers at Western Springs College in Auckland for her generous contributions. If you're a teacher, recruiter, hiring manager or student with tips to share, please contact us - we value every contribution we receive.

Reach out on Facebook to local cafes, restaurants and shops. The message function is the best way to do this, rather than a post on a business page. A suggested script covers the basics:
 
Hi Little Rock Café team. I’m Christopher, and I’m a student from North Auckland High School and am looking for part-time work. I’m available weekends, which I anticipate is your really busy period, and can start as early as needed. I’m a reliable, fast-learning, hard-working and trustworthy 17-year-old. If you would like to meet me, I’m available immediately – my number/Whatsapp is 021 511 001, or you can message me back with any questions. I look forward to your response. Kind regards, Christopher Walsh.

Before sending out anything via Facebook, make sure you have edited your public profile. Here is our suggested checklist:

1. Edit your social media – remove any photos of you looking like dogs, cats or other Snapchat animals. Keep it professional.
2. Secure your privacy – these Facebook settings outline ways to make sure ONLY your ‘friends’ see your photos and what you have posted or commented on.