Overseas-trained teachers


We have developed two introductory Teach in NZ videos to give an overview of teaching in New Zealand, and we recommend that overseas trained teachers watch them before they come to New Zealand, and before they start teaching.

If you want to find out more about teaching in New Zealand including immigration and qualification advice, visit the teach in New Zealand section of the education careers website

Teach in New Zealand — Ministry of Education

Teaching vacancies in New Zealand are listed in the Education Gazette.

Immigration rules require that schools and early learning services give preference to teachers with New Zealand registration who are citizens or permanent residents.

Special conditions apply to teachers who hold current registration in Australia. These teachers are eligible to be considered for registration under the provisions of the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Act. Find out more by visiting the Teaching Council website.

Professional support is available for overseas trained teachers. This in the form of self-paced study modules, regional workshops and an online facilitator. You can register for this free support at https://www.maukiteako.co.nz/.

Please contact the Teacher Supply team at teacher.supply@education.govt.nz if you have questions about teaching in New Zealand. 

New Zealand Teachers Council New Zealand Education Gazette New Zealand Qualifications Authority Immigration New Zealand