Resources
Useful links for backpackers and working holiday makers in New Zealand. Know your rights, stay safe, and get help when you need it.
Worker Rights
New Zealand has strong employment laws that protect all workers, including those on working holiday visas. You are entitled to the minimum wage, holiday pay, and a safe workplace.
- Employment New ZealandOfficial government resource for employment rights, minimum wage rates, leave entitlements, and how to resolve workplace problems.
- Minimum Wage RatesCurrent minimum wage rates. All workers in NZ are entitled to at least the minimum wage, regardless of visa status.
- Holidays and LeaveYour entitlements for annual holidays, sick leave, and public holidays — even in seasonal or temporary work.
- Resolving a Problem at WorkStep-by-step guidance for dealing with unfair treatment, unpaid wages, or disputes with your employer.
Workplace Safety
Agricultural and horticultural work can be physically demanding. You have the right to a safe workplace and can refuse unsafe work.
- WorkSafe New ZealandNew Zealand's workplace health and safety regulator. Report unsafe conditions or learn about your rights.
- Report a Safety ConcernReport an unsafe workplace, serious injury, or health risk directly to WorkSafe.
- Agriculture SafetySpecific safety guidance for farm work, including machinery, chemicals, and working in heat.
Immigration & Visas
Make sure you understand the conditions of your visa. Working outside your visa conditions can have serious consequences.
- Immigration New ZealandOfficial immigration information including visa conditions, extensions, and how to check your visa status.
- Working Holiday Visa InformationUnderstand what you can and cannot do on a working holiday visa, including work duration limits with a single employer.
- Report ExploitationIf an employer is exploiting your visa status, threatening deportation, or withholding pay, report it here. NZ has protections for workers who report exploitation — see the official guidance for details.
Exploitation & Unfair Treatment
Migrant worker exploitation is taken seriously in New Zealand. The government has specific protections for workers who report exploitation — see the official MBIE and Immigration NZ guidance for how these apply to your situation.
- Migrant Exploitation ProtectionSpecific information for migrant workers experiencing exploitation — what counts as exploitation and what to do about it.
- Employment Mediation ServiceFree mediation service provided by the government to resolve employment disputes without going to court.
- Human Rights CommissionIf you believe you have been discriminated against based on race, nationality, or other protected characteristics.
Free Legal Help
You do not need to pay for legal advice to understand your rights. These services are free.
- Citizens Advice BureauFree, confidential advice on any topic. Available in person at offices throughout NZ, by phone, or online.
- Community Law CentresFree legal advice and representation for people who cannot afford a lawyer. Many centres have experience with migrant worker issues.
- Tenancy ServicesIf you have issues with employer-provided accommodation, bond disputes, or rental problems.
Health & Wellbeing
Your health matters. New Zealand has publicly funded healthcare, and you may be eligible for some services on a working holiday visa.
- HealthlineFree 24/7 health advice by phone. Call 0800 611 116 for non-emergency medical guidance.
- 1737 — Need to Talk?Free mental health support. Call or text 1737 any time to talk with a trained counsellor.
- ACC (Accident Compensation)If you are injured at work or in an accident, ACC covers treatment costs regardless of visa status.
Know of a resource that should be listed here? Let us know at hello@farmdoor.co.nz