What is New Zealand CV Format?
In New Zealand, employers favor short and easily digestible CVs. Your CV needs to make a positive impression quickly as employers often scan it briefly before deciding whether to read it in detail. The New Zealand CV format emphasizes relevance and evidence of skills application.
Previous Experience
Include only relevant details of your skills and experience, focusing on how you applied these skills. Provide a brief description of the organizations you've worked for, including the number of employees, location, and contact information.
Two Types of CV
There are two main types of CVs in New Zealand:
1. Skills-focused CV: Suitable for career changers, school leavers, or those with gaps in work history.
2. Work-focused CV: Ideal for showcasing work experience, suitable for individuals progressing in their careers.
Download the official New Zealand Government templates for these CV types on [careers.govt.nz](https://www.careers.govt.nz/).
Make Your CV Easy to Read
To enhance the visual appeal of your CV:
- Use a black, easy-to-read font in one size.
- Utilize short sentences and break up text into blocks.
- Use bullet points to list information.
- Maintain a formal tone.
- Avoid abbreviations, slang, or jargon.
- Avoid photos or images.
- Ensure strong headings and sufficient white space.
- Limit your CV to two pages.
JPG or PDF – Which Format?
Save your CV in both JPG and PDF formats, as New Zealand employers may request either.
What to Write in Your NZ CV?
Include the following:
- Name and contact details
- Technical and personal skills
- Work, community, and volunteer experience
- Qualifications and education
- Referees (or note that referees are available on request)
Your CV could also feature:
- An objective and personal statement
- Achievements
- Interests
- Job-specific information
What Not to Include in your CV
Avoid including:
- Photos or images
- Colored or fancy fonts/design
- Date of birth or age
- Marital status, religion, or bank account details
- Excessive text or spelling errors
- Unprofessional email addresses
- Irrelevant work experience or interests
- False information about your experience and skills.
Objective and Personal Statement?
Consider including a brief objective or personal statement to convey the type of work you seek and your industry preferences.
Referees
Provide at least two referees, including your current manager or supervisor and another formal employer, teacher, or professor. Include their full names, job titles, organization, phone numbers, and email addresses.
New Zealand Style CV Templates
Utilize templates from the official New Zealand Government website for creating your CV. Visit [careers.govt.nz](https://www.careers.govt.nz/job-hunting/cvs-and-cover-letters/templates/) for examples.
New Zealand CV Builder
Save time by using the New Zealand CV builder available online. This tool helps you create a New Zealand-style CV quickly.
Tips for Making a New Zealand CV Format
- Keep it short
- Provide examples of your skills
- Keep your CV up to date
- Include referee contact details
- Consider the employer's perspective
- Have your CV checked for accuracy
- Write a cover letter
For additional tips, visit the official [careers.govt.nz](https://www.careers.govt.nz/) website for guidance on creating a New Zealand-style CV.
