Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Retail Assistant - Availability
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Retail Assistant - Availability role focuses on keeping supermarket shelves well stocked, tidy and easy for customers to shop. Responsibilities may include receiving and unpacking deliveries, replenishing products, rotating stock, checking dates, maintaining presentation standards and helping customers locate items. Candidates should be reliable, physically fit enough to lift and move stock safely, and comfortable working on their feet. Good communication, attention to detail and a positive customer-service attitude are important. The role may involve early mornings, evenings, weekends and public holidays, so flexible availability is usually expected. Previous retail experience is helpful but often not 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 a major grocery retailer operating across New Zealand as part of Woolworths Group, one of the largest food and retail businesses in Australasia. Formerly known widely as Countdown in New Zealand, the supermarket network began transitioning to the Woolworths brand in 2024. Stores provide fresh food, groceries, household products and online shopping services to communities throughout the country. The company employs team members in stores, distribution centres, digital operations, customer service and corporate functions. Its retail roles typically focus on dependable service, food quality, safety, inclusion and supporting local communities. Woolworths offers entry-level and experienced opportunities, with workplace training and potential pathways into department leadership, supermarket management and specialist retail careers.