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 role involves replenishing shelves, rotating and presenting stock, checking product availability, maintaining store standards, and assisting customers when required. Candidates are expected to be reliable, physically capable of standing and lifting for extended periods, comfortable working early mornings, evenings, weekends, and public holidays, and able to work efficiently in a busy supermarket. Good communication, attention to detail, a positive attitude, and teamwork are important. Previous retail or merchandising experience may be helpful but is not always essential, as training is generally provided. The successful candidate should follow health and safety procedures, deliver friendly service, and help create a clean, well-organised shopping environment.
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 Supermarkets is a major supermarket business operated by Woolworths Group, serving customers through a large network of stores and online grocery services. The company sells fresh food, household products, groceries, health and beauty items, and everyday essentials. Its teams work across stores, distribution centres, digital operations, customer service, and support offices. Woolworths places strong emphasis on fresh food, convenient shopping, value, safety, and community involvement. Store employees play an important role in keeping shelves stocked, maintaining high presentation standards, supporting customers, and ensuring a smooth daily operation. The business also promotes inclusive workplaces, team development, and flexible employment options across many locations. In New Zealand, supermarket roles are commonly associated with the Woolworths brand following the rebranding of Countdown stores.