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, availability and organisation of products in store. Typical responsibilities include replenishing shelves, arranging displays, checking stock levels, rotating products, maintaining pricing and promotional standards, and helping customers locate merchandise. Candidates are generally expected to have a positive, reliable and practical attitude, good communication skills, attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently in a busy retail environment. Physical fitness may be required for lifting, standing and frequent movement. Previous retail or merchandising experience is helpful but often not essential, as training is provided. Flexibility to work weekends, evenings or public holidays may also be expected.
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 within Woolworths Group, serving customers through a large network of supermarkets and digital shopping services. The business focuses on providing fresh food, everyday groceries, household products and convenient online delivery or collection options. Its store teams support stock availability, customer service, food quality, merchandising and safe, efficient daily operations. Woolworths places emphasis on customer needs, teamwork, inclusion, responsible sourcing and reducing food waste. In New Zealand, the supermarket business has operated under the Woolworths brand following the rebranding of Countdown stores. Employment opportunities range from entry-level store roles to specialist positions in supply chain, technology, finance and management. Benefits and conditions vary by employment agreement, location, hours and applicable New Zealand employment law.