[Knines]

Hello - we are very interested in relocating to NZ and are looking at the options available to us. One is to apply via the Skilled Migrant category but it appears to us that a job offer is required in order to get points but, with no paperwork in place as yet not having actually initiated the process, we can't see how to get said job offer resulting in said points in order to get said paperwork.

I've looked at a number of job seeker sites, including several linked to this site, but most won't let me search for even the most basic info without registering and one must be either already in NZ or have been granted residency in order to do that.

We need to get an accurate idea of whether my husband's skills (trades) are actually in demand, at what rate etc before deciding whether we're prepared to go further with the immigration process. Has anyone encountered a similar situation or am I just missing something here?

Any comments, help, etc most welcome. We feel like hamsters-on-wheels!

[willsken]

At the start of the process it seems so very daunting. I feel for you. Take it all one step at a time and you may only end up a little mad by the end of it all! :D

What is your husbands trade?

[SNK05]

Hi Knines

One is to apply via the Skilled Migrant category but it appears to us that a job offer is required in order to get points

You don't need a job offer as such but if you have one, it will boost your points...around 50 bonus points, I believe? Have you done a points check on the Immigration site? This link will give you pretty much all the info needed regarding requirements...including the points checker and EOI (Expression of Interest) bits.

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/

I've looked at a number of job seeker sites, including several linked to this site, but most won't let me search for even the most basic info without registering and one must be either already in NZ or have been granted residency in order to do that.

Have you tried.....

http://www.newkiwis.co.nz/
http://www.seek.co.nz/?tracking=sknz-netnav
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-me-jobs/index.htm

Regarding hubbies skills, again, you should be able to find this info on the Immigration site.

Hopefully this has helped a little, it can be very daunting when you 1st start looking into things.....so much to research and think about! I'm sure you'll find this forum extremely helpful....I know I have!

Good luck and welcome to the rollercoaster....enjoy the ride!

Sue & Kev

[peebles16]

Can't help with your questions much just wanted to say welcome from us too :)
Tis very daunting and a little madness helps I think :D

Also don't know what kind of jobs you are interested in but have you tried www.seek.co.nz - don't think you need to register to search..

Good luck
Karen

[Lara Croft]

Hi.
It may be worth you looking out for the NZ Expos? There are usually plenty of stands covering all kinds of jobs, and they would be able to talk to you about skills & exprience?

What does your OH do? Someone here may be in the same line of work, and may be able to offer specific advice?

Good luck, it is incredibly daunting at the start of the process!

J

[JandM]

Hello.:) Good luck with all the research.

[Knines]

Thanks to all for your encouragement and advice. "Daunting" seems to be the word du jour and that certainly describes it.

Hub's trade is journeyman (ticketed) cabinetmaker/finishing carpenter with equivalency in general carpentry, the latter being based on experience. Re the points ... I think we'll need 'em because of our age bracket and this is another puzzling part of the process as there doesn't seem to be much in the way of acknowledgement for years of experience (i.e. he's highly employable, dry behind ears, etc etc).

Anyone with any idea as to extent of the real-life NZ trades shortage? We're looking at South Island, Southland in particular.

Might end up going with the entrepreneur category but feel more comfortable with the idea of employment for a period of time while we find our feet, then setting out in our own business later. Not sure about that either, as suspect (tho' am not certain) the Gov't prefers people to pick a box and stay within it. Anyone with any experience there?