Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Retail Assistant - Merchandise
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Retail Assistant – Merchandise supports the presentation, replenishment and availability of products in store. Typical requirements include good communication skills, reliability, attention to detail, physical ability to lift and move stock, and flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends or public holidays. Previous retail or merchandising experience may be useful but is not always essential, as training is generally provided. The successful candidate is expected to follow health and safety procedures, maintain accurate product displays and pricing, work efficiently as part of a team, and provide friendly service to customers. A practical, organised and customer-focused approach is important.
Can I work in New Zealand?
Never pay anyone for a visa or a job offer. A real employer pays the permit costs and never asks you for money.
How it works
How it works: Shop-floor jobs are mostly skill level 5, as for hotel line jobs: an accredited employer, a 21-day advert, a Work and Income check, an English test and a 3-year cap.
Before you apply: Shop-floor jobs need no professional licence. Pharmacists do: they must register with the local regulator, and one qualified abroad often has to pass local exams first. Selling alcohol can need a short course and certificate, for example in Australia.
Watch for: Retail managers are on the residence 'red list' since 24 August 2026: they cannot use the two new residence pathways.
Official source: Immigration New Zealand: engaging with Work and Income before your Job Check. Checked November 2026.
What the job usually comes with in New Zealand
Usual for Retail & Consumer jobs in New Zealand, varies by employer. Checked November 2026.
| Housing | Varies; not usually provided |
|---|---|
| Relocation | Employer must pay recruitment costs; you may pay the NZD 1,540 visa fee, any adviser and airfare |
| Flights | Varies by employer and seniority |
| Pay and discount | Minimum wage NZD 23.95 an hour from 1 April 2026 (by law) |
| Contract | Work visas for most shop-floor jobs last 3 years at most (skill levels 4 and 5) |
| Leave | 4 weeks after a year and 12 public holidays (by law); 10 days' sick leave after 6 months (by law) |
| Income tax | 10.5% to NZD 15,600, 17.5% to 53,500, 30% to 78,100, 33% to 180,000, then 39%; plus a 1.75% accident levy |
Senior staff often get more than line staff, for example a single room or a yearly home flight. Ask the employer what the job includes before you accept.
Guidance, not legal advice. Rules change; your employer confirms the details for your case.
About Woolworths Supermarkets
Woolworths Group is a major retail group operating supermarkets and other consumer businesses across Australia and New Zealand. Its New Zealand supermarket business, formerly known as Countdown, trades under the Woolworths brand and serves communities through a nationwide network of stores, online shopping and distribution operations. The company sells groceries, fresh food, household products and everyday essentials, with a strong focus on convenience, value, quality and customer service. Woolworths employs a large frontline workforce across stores, supply chain, technology and corporate functions. Team members are generally expected to work collaboratively, support safe and inclusive workplaces, and help customers have a positive shopping experience. Store roles can provide useful entry-level experience and opportunities to progress into specialist, supervisory and management positions.