New Zealand · CV guide

How to write a New Zealand CV

How to write a CV for New Zealand in 2026: two to three pages, no photo, NZ spelling, referees, visa status and the job boards NZ employers use.

The short answer

A New Zealand CV is usually two to three pages with a short profile, achievement-led experience, education and referees. Don't include a photo, date of birth or marital status. Use New Zealand (British-style) English, and if you're not a citizen or resident, state your visa type.

Length: 2 to 3 pages
Photo: No
Date of birth: No
Spelling: NZ / British English
Referees: Usually 2
Called: CV

Include

Name, phone, email, LinkedIn and city
A short personal profile
Experience with achievements, most recent first
Education and professional registration
Visa type or residency status if relevant
Two referees, or "available on request"

Leave out

Photo
Date of birth or age
Marital status, religion, health information
IRD number
Full street address

Plain and practical

New Zealand employers value a straightforward, friendly and factual CV. Clear achievements and evidence of teamwork go further than big claims.

Human Rights Act

The Human Rights Act 1993 prohibits discrimination on grounds including age, sex, marital status, religion and ethnic origin, so personal details stay off the CV.

Relocating to New Zealand

State your visa status near the top. If you'll need an Accredited Employer Work Visa, check whether your occupation is on a green list or skill shortage list and mention any registrations you already hold (for example with a New Zealand professional body).

Where to apply

The job boards and sites most used by employers in New Zealand:

Seek NZ
Trade Me Jobs
LinkedIn
Kiwi Health Jobs (healthcare)
Jobs.govt.nz (public sector)

Reviewed by the PenworthCV writing team, October 2026. Conventions change: always follow the instructions in the job ad.

FAQ

New Zealand CV questions

They're close: both run two to three pages, list referees and leave out photos. New Zealand uses "CV" more often and British-style spelling.

Yes, usually two recent managers, with their permission, or "available on request".

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