How easy is it to obtain a holiday work visa and find work in New Zealand?

Odubs: How easy is it to obtain a holiday work visa and find work in New Zealand?
I’m planning a 4-6 month working holiday to New Zealand around January or February, so I’m interested in how easy it is for a westerner to get a work visa and then find a job there? I’m a second year economics student in Canada, with a bunch of experience in the foods and services sector if that helps. Has any one done this before? What was it like? Any advice or experiences to share?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Grant M
To be eligible

You must:
* have a Canadian passport that‘s valid for at least three months after your planned departure from New Zealand
* be at least 18 and not more than 35 years old
* not bring children with you
* hold a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase such a ticket*
* have a minimum of NZ$ 4,200 available funds to meet your living costs while you’re here
* meet our health and character requirements
* be coming to New Zealand to holiday, with work or study being secondary intentions for your visit
* not have been approved a visa or permit under a working holiday scheme before.

Pretty basic really and there are no limits on numbers for the Canada Working Holiday Scheme. Jobs in the food area are relatively easy to get. especially with some experience already.

Jan- Feb is good for weather and plenty have done it.