Personal stories

People come to New Zealand to teach from many countries and for many different reasons.

Young teachers often include a stint teaching here as part of their OE (overseas experience). They may be attracted to New Zealand because they love the great outdoors which is so accessible to everyone here. They may be keen skiiers or snowboarders, they may enjoy watersports like sailing or fishing, many love bushwalking and hiking, others participate in multisports which are very big in New Zealand.

There are others who are trained in the arts and come here to participate in the vigorous, innovative performing and visual arts scene.

Many teachers with families choose to come here and settle in a clean, safe and friendly environment. They see opportunities here for their children, and themselves, to have a great lifestyle.

Most teachers who come to New Zealand to teach have found a job here first. They have had their qualifications assessed and sorted out the paperwork which is so much easier to do before leaving. Once here it can be very frustrating to try and access information that's been left behind. That's why we've included a lot of information and links on the site to help you get everything sorted in a logical order!

A high level of spoken and written English is a major requirement to teach in New Zealand schools.

Check out the personal stories of some overseas trained teachers teaching here now. Job opportunities plus a NZ$4,000 International Relocation Grant means there has never been an easier time to come and teach in New Zealand.

You'll find teachers from the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, India, Pasifika nations...