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 supports the presentation, replenishment and availability of products in store. Typical duties include receiving and unpacking stock, filling shelves, rotating products, maintaining accurate ticketing and displays, checking product quality and helping customers locate items. Candidates are expected to be reliable, physically capable of lifting and standing for extended periods, attentive to detail and comfortable working in a fast-paced retail environment. Good communication, teamwork, a positive attitude and flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends or public holidays are usually required. Previous retail or merchandising experience is helpful but may not be essential, as training is generally provided.
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 one of Australia and New Zealand’s major supermarket businesses, serving millions of customers through stores and online shopping services. The company sells groceries, fresh food, household products and everyday essentials, supported by large supply-chain, digital and customer-service operations. Its retail teams focus on product availability, helpful service, food quality, safety and a clean, welcoming shopping environment. Woolworths promotes teamwork, inclusion, learning and internal career development, with opportunities ranging from store operations and merchandising to logistics, technology and management. In New Zealand, supermarket employment may operate under a local brand or employing entity, so applicants should confirm the exact business name, workplace location, employment terms and applicable collective agreement in the job offer.