Canterbury

Find jobs, courses, business support and events in Canterbury, home to New Zealand’s digital city and largest agricultural region

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Free career advice

Get free in-person advice from a professional career expert in Christchurch.

This session can provide you with advice on:

  • Studying or training
  • Changing careers
  • Preparing your CV and cover letter
  • Job applications

Spaces are limited, so email to book your spot.

Linwood Connected Centre
When: Every Monday and Tuesday 
Where: Connected Centre, Work and Income, 154 Aldwins Road

Linwood Library
When: Thursday
Where: Linwood Library, First Floor, Eastgate Mall, Buckleys Road

Request a booking direct_careers@msd.govt.nz


Papanui
When: Monday and Thursday
Where: Connected Centre, Work and Income, 56 Langdons Road

Request a booking debbie.gray@proactive4health.co.nz


Rangiora
When: Tuesday and Wednesday
Where: Connected Centre, Work and Income, 4 High Street

Request a booking hemali.shah@careerwave.co.nz


Hornby
When: Monday - Friday
Where: Connected Centre, Work and Income, 25 Shands Road

Request a booking karen@careersavvy.co.nz


Sydenham
When: Wednesday and Friday 
Where: Connected Centre, Work and Income, 39 Durham Street South

Request a booking direct_careers@msd.govt.nz

Mahi Wānanga Employment Expo

Are you looking for local job and training opportunities?

You are invited to Mahi Wānanga, an employment expo showcasing local employment, education, training and social support services for the community. Here you can explore:

  • Direct employment opportunities
  • Employment support services
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Tailored advice to enhance your employability

When: Wednesday 25 September, 10am - 12pm
Where: Eastgate Mall 20 Buckleys Road, Linwood, Christchurch

For more information, please email: connectedlinwood@msd.govt.nz

Papanui Employment Expo

Discover local job & training opportunities.

A free entry event where you can:

  • explore a variety of positions available near you
  • meet employers face to face and share your CV
  • talk with training providers about available courses, and more.

When: Thursday 26 September, 6pm-8pm
Where: Northlands Mall, 55 Main North Road, Papanui, Christchurch

For queries, please email: connectedpapanui@msd.govt.nz

We Belong Event

Join in this free entry event that focusses on women pioneering the future in Construction.

Many women in construction have been pioneers in the industry, advocating for change and carving a path for others to follow. Join in this collective mission to:

  • hear from BCITO apprentice leader Meika Newman on why they chose construction
  • connect with other women in construction and hear various stories
  • be encouraged and inspired about your own career path in construction.

When: Thursday 19 September, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Where: Placemakers Cranford Street, 319 Cranford Street, Christchurch

Book your spot (external link)

Next Gen Careers Expo

Looking for a career kickstart or insights on future directions?

This is a great opportunity to network, get inspired and take the first step towards a successful career. At the expo you can:

  • connect with local employers
  • discover apprenticeships
  • explore work-based learning
  • find short courses that align with your goals.

When: Wednesday 11 September, 1:30pm-3pm
Where: TSB Space Tūranga Library, 60 Cathedral Square Christchurch

For any queries, please email: connectedsydenham@msd.govt.nz

Job Seminars

Gain valuable support towards achieving your career goals.

Join our six-week job seminar and gain essential skills for your career journey. Here you’ll Learn:

  • Job hunting skills
  • Earn your Site Safe Certificate using virtual reality
  • Discover study opportunities
  • Build confidence and set career goals
  • Hands-on Digital Skills learning modules

When: Tuesdays, 1:30pm–3:30pm
Venue: Ministry of Social Development, Timaru (14 Strathallen Street)

Book your spot now by emailing: connectedtimaru@msd.govt.nz

Study Information Sessions

Are you thinking about enhancing your skills for the future job market?

Join and speak with representatives from Ara to explore a variety of study options and learn about the financial support available to help you succeed while you study.

When: Last Thursday of every month, 10:30am-11:30am
Where: 39 Durham Street South, Sydenham, Christchurch

For queries, please email: connectedsydenham@msd.govt.nz

Ara Timaru Drop-In Sessions

Looking for help with your study/career direction?

Meet with Connected and Ministry of Social Development representatives and find information on employment, education and training opportunities.

Drop-in and chat about:

  • Your study or training options
  • Changing careers
  • Writing CVs and cover letters 
  • Other ways Connected can help you.

When: Wednesdays fortnightly, 11:30am – 1:30pm
Where: Cafe, Ara Institute of Canterbury/Te Pūkenga campus, 32 Arthur Street, Timaru

Drop-in or email connectedtimaru@msd.govt.nz

Work Ready Mission

Want to step into the world of work but not sure where to start?

Join Work Ready Mission to discover possibilities, networks and explore support options. Attend just 1 session or join us weekly. Topics covered include:

  • What work means for you
  • Skills and strengths
  • Dress to impress
  • The digital world and overcoming challenges

When: Thursdays 15 August - 19 September, 1pm – 2pm

Where:

August sessions - Oxford Terrace Baptist Church, 288 Oxford Terrace

September sessions - Christchurch City Mission, 276 Hereford Street

For any queries, please contact: connectedsydenham@msd.govt.nz

Call centre

Christchurch City Council Jobs

Do you want to support in providing services that make lives easier for the residents of Christchurch?

With the Christchurch City Council, you will be involved in shaping the city, its communities and the environment. The Council offers a stable and supportive work environment with opportunities to develop and progress in your career.

Current career opportunities include:

  • Fitness Instructor
  • Travel Planning Assistant
  • Intermediate Software Engineer - Spatial
  • Customer Service Representatives
  • Retail Sales Assistant, and more.
Apply Now (external link)

Christmas Retail Assistants

Are you available to work through Christmas helping create great shopping experience for everyone?

A popular store which is a go to destination for all holiday shopping needs is looking for team members to join them during the festive season in fixed term roles starting early October and extending through into January, based on store needs. You will need to have:

  • passion for customer service
  • excellent communication skills
  • ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • flexibility to work late nights, weekends and pick up extra shifts when required.
Apply Now (external link)

Work at DOC

Are you passionate about nature and the environment?

Department of Conservation offers you jobs where you can combine work and your love for conservation of nature. Here you will be working in a diverse work environment and in roles ranging from technical specialists to frontline rangers.

If you’re interested in joining a team of people who love what they do, find out more about a career with DOC. Current vacancies include:

  • Inspector
  • Data and Information Governance Lead
  • Data Integration Engineer
Apply Now (external link)

ECAN Careers and Student Programmes

Do you want to be part of creating a sustainable future for Canterbury’s natural resources?

Environment Canterbury Regional Council (ECAN) is offering 3-4 months (November 2024 to February 2025) full-time summer programmes for students seeking to gain real-world work experience in a variety of areas including:

  • Parks and Forestry
  • Flood Protection
  • Science Analytics
  • Water Quality Management, and more.

ECAN is also offering other permanent/fixed-term jobs both full- and part-time in roles ranging from management to field work.

Find out more (external link)

Join Z Energy

Explore exciting opportunities with Z Energy in customer service and hospitality.

Z Energy are hiring Customer Service Representatives (day and night shifts) and Food and Coffee Specialists across various locations.

You can be part of a dynamic team dedicated to excellent service and community.

Apply Now (external link)

Concrete Workers

Are you looking for full-time concrete work opportunities?

Join the dynamic team in Christchurch as a full-time Concrete Worker where you will be working on:

  • interpreting blueprints and drawings
  • setting up formwork (Molds) for concrete placement
  • preparing and cleaning surfaces
  • mixing, pouring and levelling concrete
  • monitoring temperature for curing concrete.

In your application, you will need to have:

  • 3+ years’ experience in concrete work
  • physical fitness to carry out hands-on activities.
Apply Now (external link)

More Canterbury jobs

Looking for other work? Check out Work and Income’s recruitment website Kimi Mahi Mai.

Kimi Mahi Mai, Find a Job is for anyone looking for work – you don’t have to be on a benefit. If you find a job you’re interested in, contact Work and Income to be put in touch with the employer.  

Visit Find a Job (external link)
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Health and Wellbeing Certification

Are you a support worker looking to upgrade your skills with a level 2 qualification?

Boost your career with MySkills eLearning Level 2 qualification, designed specifically for support workers. This comprehensive 40-credit program includes essential modules such as:

  • infection control
  • medication prompting
  • recognising risks
  • followed by practical verification.

You will be provided with all marking, moderation and monthly progress reports. A dedicated facilitator will be providing personalised support with easy online access to complete your training.

Enrol now (external link)

University of Canterbury Open Day

Rā Tōmene Open Day is your chance to experience everything UC has to offer.

This is an awesome opportunity for you to discover everything about life at UC. You’ll be able to explore the campus, its halls of residence, attend information sessions on your study options and chat with advisors about enrolment and courses.

When: Friday 30 August, 8am – 5pm
Where: University of Canterbury, Ilam, Christchurch

Register today (external link)

Level 2 Manufacturing Course

Gain essential knowledge in manufacturing and workplace safety.

The qualification provided by Competenz will help you gain foundational skills and knowledge to work in entry level operational or non-operational roles in the manufacturing sector.

This is an entry level qualification, designed for people already working in the industry or people wishing to start a career in manufacturing.

Enrol now (external link)

Level 3 Commercial Road Transport Certificate

Do you enjoy being on the road and want to earn a living out of it?

Kickstart a rewarding career in commercial road transport with this comprehensive level 3 qualification. Over nine months, you'll gain practical skills in:

  • vehicle loading
  • yard duties
  • basic driving, and more.

The course is designed with industry input and ensures you meet safety and regulatory standards while mastering key vehicle systems.

Enrol now (external link)

Train to become a Teacher

UC Education offers a range of innovative and relevant Teacher Education pathways.

University of Canterbury (UC) offers a wide variety of teacher training study options ranging from early childhood to primary and secondary teaching.

You can get in touch with the Student Advice Team who can advice on course options and degree programmes.

Apply Now (external link)

Pathways to study, work, and training

If secondary school wasn’t for you, check out Youth Guarantee Scheme.

The Youth Guarantee Scheme provides a pathway from school, where you will have a wider range of learning opportunities, free training, and education for one year.

There are limited spaces, if you are interested, applications should as early as possible before courses begin.

Youth Guarantee Scheme Courses available in the Christchurch campus include:

  • Automotive Engineering
  • Construction
  • Electrical Trade Skills
  • Hair Dressing (Salon Support)
  • Collision Repair and Automotive Refinishing
  • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.

Apply online or call 0800 40 33 37 to enrol for a course.

Discover more (external link)

Māori & Pasifika Trades Training

Are you Māori or Pasifika aged 16-40, and interested in Trades courses?

Here’s an exciting opportunity to learn a trade. You might even be able to get a scholarship to pay your course fees.

You will be supported in your learning, receive one-on-one career coaching, and gain help to find work.

Courses include:

  • Certificate in Carpentry Trade Skills (Level 3)
  • Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 3)
  • Certificate in Plumbing, Gas fitting and Drain laying - Pre-Apprenticeship (Level 3)
  • Certificate in Trade Skills - Paint and Plaster Strand (Level 3).

Go online or call 03-366 3489 to find out more.

For more information (external link)

Get Certified in Civil Trades

Advance your career with Civil Trade Certification.

Connexis is offering recognized programs with a clear career trajectory in civil infrastructure through formal qualifications and practical experience.

Whether you're new to the industry or seeking to upgrade your skills, you can find multiple pathways including apprenticeships. You could be certified in the following areas:

  • Road construction and maintenance
  • Pipeline constructions and maintenance
  • Road surfacing
  • Piling
Apply Now (external link)

Choose your course

Whatever level you’d like to study at, you can find a course to suit you in Canterbury.

Click on the link below to find the field of study and type of qualification to interest you. Qualifications range from certificate level 1-3 to doctorates.

Find your course now (external link)
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Upskill online

Gain a certificate through a range of short courses.

Whether it’s new staff you need to upskill quickly, or experienced people who need a refresh, these courses are practical and contain information you need to know to help protect and build your business. These courses can be completed anytime and anywhere.

Choose from any of these courses:

  • Hospo Safe – your online food and workplace safety essential
  • Introduction to Customer Service Skills
  • Introduction to Visitor Experience
  • Resolving Customer Complaints Effectively.
For more information (external link)

HR Business Training

Learn about managing talent and recruitment challenges in the current economic climate.

Are you a business owner, senior leader or an HR personnel who is currently restructuring to meet demands, managing a surge in job applications or trying to find the right talent for your people?

This event will provide practical insights and actionable steps to help you:

  • maximise your existing team’s resources and skills
  • improve internal processes for easier hiring
  • develop and retain your current staff
  • stay updated on the latest trends and strategies in human resources.

When: Wednesday 28 August, 4pm - 5:30pm
Where: Business Canterbury, 57 Kilmore Street, Christchurch

Cost: $35 +GST (members), $55 +GST (non-member)

Find out more (external link)

Manufacturing Grow & Connect Event

Are you a manufacturer that is interested in trends and opportunities in the space industry?

Join Business Canterbury for an informative event designed to help you learn, connect and take the first steps towards entering the New Zealand and global aerospace/space industry supply chains. You will learn about:

  • how manufacturers within Canterbury have entered the industry
  • vast opportunities in the aerospace/space sector
  • how to diversify client portfolios and bring new work into the region.

When: Thursday 5 September, 4:30pm - 6pm
Where: Business Canterbury, 57 Kilmore Street, Christchurch

Cost: $25 +GST (members) and $45 +GST (non-members)

Find out more (external link)

Need HR advice?

Access expert guidance and best practices support with Business Canterbury.

The HR Advice Module offers you expert advice, guidance and peace of mind that you are meeting employment law obligations.

Included in this module:

  • 12 HR Adviceline calls
  • 3 hours of HR consultancy per year
  • Access to the latest HR/Employment Relations Act Case Law

Cost: Business Canterbury Member $45+GST per month, Non-member price: $55+GST per month

Learn more (external link)

Free business assessment

Are you looking for advice, focused on building capability and growth?

ChristchurchNZ is your local Regional Business Partner for the Canterbury region.

The Regional Business Partner Network provides an invaluable resource through information and support to help you achieve your business goals.

The Regional Business Partner Growth Advisors can meet with you for:

  • A free business assessment to take a birds-eye look at your whole business
  • Identify the next steps in your business and provide you with an action plan, and
  • Connections to experts and resources to set you in the right direction.
Find support (external link)

Start-Up Guidance

Discover a free hub for business resources.

Business but Better is a free hub for business resources, created by ethical entrepreneur Brianne West. Here you can gain digital membership and entry into an active community of mission-led brands who want to sell out (without selling out).

You can get loads of guidance and resource towards starting up or growing a business that is financially sustainable.

Discover more (external link)

Your business and tax

Attend face to face seminars or webinars to guide you setting up your business correctly to meet your tax obligations.

Inland Revenue (IR) offers three practical sessions:

  • Starting a business? Introduction to Business offers information on the different ways to structure your business, expenses you can claim, and how income tax and provisional tax works.
  • Are you registered for GST or thinking of registering for GST? GST is to help you learn who needs to register for GST, what GST is charged on, what information must be recorded and how to send this to them, and ceasing your GST registration.
  • Are you employing? The Employers session covers who needs to register as an employer, and what information must be recorded and how to send it to IR.

With a choice of format, don't miss out and register today!

Follow for upcoming events (external link)

Drop-in or make an appointment to visit your local Connected centre to find out about how government agencies can help you find a job, training or business support.

Hornby

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
25 Shands Road
Hornby
Christchurch 8042

Linwood

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
154 Aldwins Road
Linwood
Christchurch 8011

Papanui

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
56 Langdons Road
Papanui
Christchurch 8053

Sydenham

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
39 Durham Street,
Christchurch

Rangiora

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
4 High Street
Rangiora 7400

Timaru

MSD/Work and Income Employment Centre
14 Strathallan Street
Timaru 7910

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