Publish on October 17, 2024

The 10 Best Working From Home Jobs (2025)

Claudia Reiners

Working from home is now a rewarding, long-term career path for many Kiwis. Whether you’re craving more flexibility, want to skip the daily commute, or you’re exploring a new income stream, remote jobs across New Zealand are opening doors across industries.

With the right qualifications and a commitment to skill development, virtually any job can be done remotely. In this guide, we break down the 10 best work-from-home jobs in 2025, including what each involves, the skills you’ll need, and how much you can expect to earn in regions across New Zealand.

---

Why work from home?

Working remotely has real benefits that go beyond convenience. One of the biggest drawcards is flexibility, where you can set your own hours and fit work around your lifestyle. With no commute, you’ll save time, cut stress, and gain more hours back for the things that matter.

Working from home also often means better work-life balance, improved wellbeing, and more control over your day, especially when you can design a routine that works for you.

What to consider before choosing a remote job

Before jumping in, take a moment to reflect on what kind of remote role suits you best. Ask yourself:

• Do I have the right skills and tools?
  Are you confident using digital platforms, communication tools, or specialist software?
• What’s the work schedule like?
  Will you be working set hours, or is the role outcome-based and more flexible?
• What’s the income potential?
  Some roles start strong, while others grow with experience or client base.
• Is it a stable option?
  Look for roles in industries with steady or growing demand for remote workers.
• Can I work well from home?
  A quiet space, reliable internet, and the ability to set boundaries are key.

10 legitimate work-from-home jobs in NZ

Role	Entry pay	Senior pay	Flexibility
Beauty therapist	$45,000- $55,000/yr	$65,000- $90,000/yr	Flexible, client or content-based
Bookkeeper	$50,000- $60,000/yr	$80,000- $100,000+	Flexible, client-based
Web developer / designer	$50,000- $65,000/yr	$110,000- $130,000+	Highly flexible, project-based
Web developer/ designer	$65,000- $75,000/yr	$100,000- $130,000+	Flexible, campaign-driven
Social media manager	$45,000- $60,000/yr	$80,000- $110,000+	Flexible, content deadlines
Online teacher / tutor	$25-40/hr	$80-100+/hr	Live sessions, semi-flexible
Virtual assistant	$25-30/hr	$45-60+/hr	Very flexible, task-based
Content writer	$30-40/hr	$80-100+/hr	Project-based, flexible
Online teacher/tutor	$22-30/hr	$35-40/hr	Business skills, marketing, niche expertise, and increasing client share
Freelance / business owner	Varies (side income)	Six figures possible	Fully flexible, self-directed

1. Beauty therapist

Beauty therapists specialise in treatments that help people look and feel their best. This can include facials, massages, nails, waxing, or cosmetic services, and many therapists choose to focus on a particular niche. With the right setup, many services can be performed from home, giving you the option to build your own client base and work around your lifestyle.

Hygiene and professionalism are essential in this field, as maintaining a safe and welcoming environment is key to success. It’s a people-focused role that combines technical skills with creativity and care.

• Skills: Beauty expertise, digital confidence
• Pay: NZ$25–30/hr entry-level, up to NZ$60/hr+
• Good fit if you enjoy: Helping people feel great and growing your personal brand

Discover 7 tips for starting your own beauty therapy business from home.

2. Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers play a crucial role in helping businesses stay financially organised and compliant. You’ll manage daily financial records, reconcile accounts, process invoices, and oversee payroll. Many bookkeepers work with small businesses that don’t have an in-house finance team, which means you could support a variety of clients across different industries.

The role requires strong attention to detail, a love for numbers, and confidence using accounting software such as Xero or MYOB. Bookkeeping can be an excellent stepping stone into accounting or a stable career in its own right.

• Skills: Accuracy, numeracy, financial software like Xero
• Pay: NZ$24,000 starting, up to NZ$70,000+
• Good fit if you enjoy: Organisation, numbers, and behind-the-scenes work

3. Web developer/designer

Web developers and designers are responsible for creating websites that are functional, visually appealing, and user-friendly. Developers typically focus on the coding and back-end systems, ensuring that websites run smoothly and securely, while designers focus on user interface (UI) and user experience (UX), shaping how a website looks and feels.

Many professionals choose to specialise, but there are also hybrid roles combining both skills. With businesses of all sizes needing a strong online presence, demand for web talent continues to grow, and short courses can be a fast way to build skills and launch into this field.

• Skills: Coding or design, a strong portfolio, short courses can help
• Pay: NZ$37,000 to NZ$124,000+
• Good fit if you enjoy: Solving problems, building tools, and creating with tech

Seven things to know if you want to become a remote web developer in NZ.

4. Digital marketer

As a digital marketer, you’ll create and manage campaigns that connect brands with their audiences online. This could involve running targeted ads on Google, Facebook, or LinkedIn, developing email marketing campaigns, or creating strategies for driving website traffic. The role blends creativity with analytics so you’ll need to understand how to craft engaging content while also interpreting data to optimise results.

Many digital marketers specialise in areas like SEO, paid advertising, or content marketing, and having certifications can help you stand out. With demand continuing to rise, it’s a career with strong growth potential.

• Skills: Digital channels, data literacy, certifications help
• Pay: NZ$52,000 to NZ$99,000+
• Good fit if you enjoy: Storytelling with data, strategy, and problem-solving

5. Social media manager

Social media managers are the voice of a brand online. You’ll plan and schedule content, manage community engagement, monitor trends, and analyse performance across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, or X. Beyond posting, the role requires strategic thinking where you’ll need to understand audience behaviours, test new approaches, and respond quickly to online conversations.

Strong creative skills are essential, as you’ll often be writing copy, designing visuals, or briefing creative teams. It’s a fast-moving, exciting career path that suits people who thrive in digital-first environments and love building authentic connections with audiences.

• Skills: Creativity, copywriting, social tools
• Pay: NZ$44,000–70,000+
• Good fit if you enjoy: Digital trends, audience engagement, creativity

6. Online teacher/tutor

In this role, guide students through lessons via video calls, interactive platforms, and one-on-one support. Prepare engaging lesson plans, adapt your teaching style to suit different learning needs, and provide personalised feedback to help students achieve their goals.

Many tutors focus on high-demand areas such as English as a Second Language (ESL), maths, or adult upskilling, but opportunities also exist in niche subjects. The flexibility of online tutoring allows you to work with students across the globe and set your own hours, making it a great option for those who value independence and variety.

• Skills: Strong subject knowledge, clear communication, confidence with online tools
• Pay: NZ$22/hr starting, up to NZ$80/hr+ for experienced tutors
• Good fit if you enjoy: Helping people learn, flexible hours, real-time connection

Looking for a reason to pursue teaching in New Zealand? We’ll give you five.

7. Virtual assistant/admin support

A virtual assistant provides remote administrative support to individuals or businesses. Tasks can range from managing inboxes and calendars to booking travel, handling customer enquiries, or creating reports. Some virtual assistants also support contact centre operations or customer service, acting as a point of contact for clients. Many VAs work on a freelance or contract basis, which provides flexibility and the chance to choose clients.

The role suits people who are highly organised, adaptable, and comfortable working independently. As more businesses embrace remote work, demand for VAs is increasing, making it a solid career choice for those seeking flexible and diverse work.

• Skills: Organisation, communication, time management
• Pay: NZ$25/hr starting, up to NZ$60/hr
• Good fit if you enjoy: Juggling tasks, supporting others, working independently

8. Content writer/copywriter

Writers and copywriters craft the words that power marketing campaigns, websites, blogs, social posts, and more. Content writers tend to focus on educational, informative, or storytelling-based pieces, while copywriters specialise in persuasive writing designed to sell or convert. A strong grasp of grammar, creativity, and an understanding of SEO are crucial in today’s digital-first landscape.

Many writers freelance, offering freedom and variety, while others work in-house or for agencies. This role is well-suited to people who love working with language and shaping ideas into engaging narratives.

• Skills: Writing, grammar, SEO knowledge
• Pay: NZ$28/hr to NZ$80/hr+
• Good fit if you enjoy: Storytelling, working solo, and getting creative with words

9. Data entry / transcription

Data entry and transcription roles are all about accuracy and efficiency. In data entry, you’ll be transferring information into digital systems, while transcription focuses on converting audio recordings into written documents.

These jobs are ideal for those who prefer quiet, focused work and enjoy repetitive tasks where attention to detail matters. While often entry-level, they can provide a steady source of income and are commonly flexible or remote-friendly, making them a practical choice for those looking to work from home.

• Skills: Fast, accurate typing, attention to detail
• Pay: NZ$22–30/hr
• Good fit if you enjoy: Focused solo work and repetitive tasks

In five steps you can start your data entry career… from home. Learn how to get started.

10. Freelance / small-business owner

Becoming a freelancer or starting a small business allows you to take control of your career and income. You could offer services like design, coaching, photography, or consulting, or build an e-commerce business.

The possibilities are almost limitless, but success requires strong self-discipline, business knowledge, and a willingness to learn. While it can be challenging at the start, this path offers incredible freedom, creativity, and the potential to grow into a full-time business with significant earning potential.

• Skills: Business basics, marketing, self-discipline
• Pay: Varies — from side hustle to six-figure potential
• Good fit if you enjoy: Freedom, independence, and creating your own path

Serious about making sales? Find out which courses can help you maximise your business’ growth.

---

How to apply for a remote job in NZ

Getting a remote job is straightforward. Most roles will ask you to:

1. Submit an online application (usually with a resume and cover letter)
2. Complete a verification step, which may require you to take an action such as completing a security check or CAPTCHA, to prove you’re human and protect your data
3. Attend a video interview if you’re shortlisted

Ensuring the security of your connection and completing all verification steps is essential before proceeding with your application. If you need help or have questions during the process, you can request assistance from the employer or platform.

Follow the steps carefully, and tailor your application to each role. The more effort you put in upfront, the more likely you’ll land a role that suits your goals and your lifestyle.

Verification process: Spotting legitimate opportunities

When searching for remote jobs, it’s crucial to ensure the opportunities you find are legitimate. Look for signs like a verification successful waiting message or a ray id on the site, which can indicate that the platform is secure and your information is protected.

However, don’t stop there. Always review the company’s website, check their social media presence, and read reviews from other employees to get a sense of their reputation. Be wary of any job or site that asks for sensitive personal or financial information upfront, and never respond to requests that seem suspicious.

Taking the time to verify each remote job opportunity will help you avoid scams and ensure you’re connecting with reputable employers who offer genuine work-from-home experiences.

---

How to set yourself up for success

Overcoming challenges of working from home

While remote work brings plenty of benefits, it’s not without its challenges. Distractions at home, feelings of social isolation, and technical hiccups can all impact your work life. To overcome these hurdles, it’s important to set up a dedicated workspace, establish clear boundaries with family and friends, and invest in reliable technology to keep you connected.

Regular communication with colleagues and employers is key to staying informed and feeling part of the team, even when you’re working remotely. By developing strategies to manage these challenges, remote workers can thrive in their careers and enjoy a healthier work-life balance. Support from family, friends, and the wider community also plays a big role in helping remote workers succeed and grow in their chosen careers.

Staying organised while working remotely

Staying organised is essential for remote workers who want to manage their time effectively and consistently deliver high-quality work. Using productivity tools, digital calendars, and to-do lists can help you prioritise tasks and stay focused throughout the day. Breaking large projects into smaller, manageable steps and setting achievable goals will keep you motivated and on track.

Establishing a daily routine—and sticking to it—can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance and achieve your career goals. By staying organised, remote workers can build a strong reputation in their industry, deliver great results, and make the most of their flexible work life.

Ready to live the life you’ve always wanted?