cover letter sample new zealand

Simple New Zealand

How To Master a Cover Letter for New Zealand [Examples & Tips]

Although you might don’t want to, yet in most cases, you need to include a cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. NZ cover letter is similar to other countries; it should show the company why you are the right candidate for the job. Take your time to write a personal and customized letter. Never send the generic one; this can ruin your application from the start.

A cover letter is a monumental part of your job application in New Zealand. A good cover letter should answer the main question, which is why the company should hire you. Additionally, it must provide information on how you can bring value to the company and help them with the challenges. A cover letter should showcase the relevant skills and experience you have.

In most cases, businesses and recruiters in New Zealand will require you to attach a customized cover letter. And it’s a good thing for you. In the end, the cover letter is a claim for the role – it’s your chance to highlight and match your experience against the job description and to clearly state what you can offer your potential employer.

If you are looking for a job in New Zealand, I would highly recommend going through the Job Hunter’s handbook made by Careers.govt.nz.

Table of Contents

Is a cover letter necessary in New Zealand?

Unfortunately, yes, you need to include a customized cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. Almost  half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. A high-quality, customized cover letter tells the manager you are a dedicated professional. It should be only a page long.

A resume or CV alone can show your achievements and qualifications, but it can’t tell the story and explain why you choose this company in particular. That’s why we need a cover letter. It’s also a great tool to show your personality and motivation. It must show the employer you are an asset to their company.

Are you resigning from your previous job? Read how to write a proper resignation letter .

Resignation Letter in New Zealand (Examples + Template)

Tips and guidance for a winner cover letter

So what is a cover letter, and why it’s so important for your job application in New Zealand?

• Cover letter is your first point of contact with employers .
• It should fit on one page .
• It needs to explain why you want this job .
• It should relate to your CV .
• It should describe your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments .
• It should show the evidence that you have researched the company and that you are the right candidate.

If you follow these simple statements, you should already be able to create a decent letter. Yet, if you want more, read this article to the end and follow the advice.

The winning tactic here is focusing on  them , not just on  you,  which will ultimately make you stand out from other applicants

When writing your cover letter, pay attention to the following:

• Do very extensive research about the company. Show it in the cover letter.
• Reflect on the company’s vision.
• Highlight specific achievements and successes that show you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
• Show your personality.
• Prove that you understand the challenges of the company.
• Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
• Presents how your skills and experience as a solution for the company.
• Create a list of job keywords that are mentioned in the job ad. Include them in the cover letter.
• Address the cover letter to the right person, e.g., the hiring manager or recruiter
• Be clear and concise
• Have a structure in the letter – beginning, middle, end
• Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
• Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
• Try to be funny
• Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
• Forget your full contact details
• Generic and boring opening paragraph
• Copy-paste from the CV or job ad
• Start every sentence with “I”
• Write more than one page

Looking for a job? Check out the best recruitment agencies in New Zealand .

Best Recruitment Agencies in New Zealand 2024

1. research about the company and position.

Your knowledge about the company you are applying to work for is crucial. You must also know all the essential details about the advertised position and how your skills and experience fit in.

When someone reads your cover letter, they must be sure you are the right candidate for this position and for this company. That’s why you must include as many tailored to the job ad details as possible (yet not too many).

So, look for information on the company, its key products or services, its mission, and anything else that gives you an insight into them. Notice the most important details and mention them in the cover letter where appropriate.

You might want to check out the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and LinkedIn profiles.

The culture of the organization is vital to note. This will influence your communication style. For instance, you might be more casual with start-ups or advertising agencies but more formal with banks and large corporations.

2. Show how you can help

A company hires you to solve a problem or to help with challenging tasks they are unable to manage. Point out the things you can do for a company and which potential results it might bring. Or maybe you already were challenged with similar tasks? Mention it in your cover letter!

3. Why are you a perfect fit?

The second paragraph of your cover letter should give a clear idea to the reader why you are the one and that you will satisfy the company’s specific needs.

Here you should match the keywords mentioned in the job ad with your skills and experience. You also must show the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. Include all the enthusiasm and passion you have.

Match your skills with a job ad

Highlight the key skills and qualities in the ad, e.g.:

• strong written and verbal communication
• technical skills
• analytical thinking
• team player or teamwork
• problem-solving
• time management
• knowledge of software & tools
• specialized or technical competencies
• high level of computer competency
• ability to work well under pressure
• enthusiasm and initiative
• excellent customer service

Include them in the cover letter with real-life examples.

Connections matter in New Zealand

About 70% of all jobs in New Zealand are so-called hidden. They are simply not advertised because hiring managers seek candidates within the company, their circle of colleagues, and people they know before they post a job ad. For that reason, having connections in New Zealand is very crucial.

You are more likely to be invited to an interview if you know a friend of a friend and they got a reference they you rather than just based on your qualifications and experience.

That might be good news for some and bad news for others. Nonetheless, it’s highly recommended to start networking as soon as you land in New Zealand. Join groups, participate in social and professional events, work on your Linkedin profile, and just be proactive.

And if you are lucky to know someone in the company you are applying to work for, mention it in the first sentence or two of your cover letter.

Don’t forget to include

Your cover letter shouldn’t miss these small but key elements:

Your personal value and personality

While skills and experiences are indeed critical, New Zealanders love human connection. If they find you an interesting and nice person, they are more likely to move forward with your application.

Try to be personal in your cover letter; tell them more unique things about you and your experience. Avoid being general at any cost.

Reflect on your experience that relates to the job ad and company profile. What challenges have you faced, and how did you solve them? You also want to provide evidence of the things you mention by using concrete examples, situations, numbers, and facts. For example:

“During the last quarter, my company was challenged by the supply shortage of …We have had 200% more orders than we can ever fulfill. To solve this problem, I was on the lookout for new suppliers for several weeks; after dozens of selling calls, I finally managed to sign a contract with our best supplier so far. I will never come across them otherwise.”

Your enthusiasm

In many cases, people don’t get hired because they aren’t enthusiastic and convincing enough. So, it’s not the lack of skills; it’s your desire and how you show it. If you make it as if it was your dream job, you are more likely to be invited. Avoid at any cost writing in a manner as you are doing a company a favor by working for them.

Hiring managers even say, “Enthusiasm conveys personality.” Some tips that help you to point out your enthusiasm include:

• Show that you have thought about the job and why you would like to work for them.
• Why is this company so brilliant? What they do the best? How they stand out?
• Mention their reputation, performance, and product.
• Remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you.

NZ cover letter structure

Following the formal structure when piecing together a cover letter is as much as important as its content. So, make sure you stick to New Zealand standards. Here is an example:

Dear [Ms. or Mr. Surname],

• Opening – Explain why you are writing this letter (add an interesting one-liner summarizing why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business.)
• Explain your interest in the job, show knowledge about the company and position
• Demonstrate your skills and experience related to the job
• Explain why you will fit into this role and which value you will bring to the company
• Sign off and offer them to contact you

Yours sincerely,

Your name – Andrew Black.

Make sure you check your cover letter via Grammarly for spelling and grammar mistakes!

Cover letter introduction

The introduction sentences will determine whether the hiring manager will read on or skip your resume. Start your cover letter in an unconventional way and hold the reader’s interest. Here are some tips for a stellar introduction:

• Highlight your achievements in the industry.
• Display your passion and enthusiasm.
• Mention some names and numbers.

A no-go cover letter introduction looks like this:

In response to your posting for the Digital Marketing Manager position, I would like to express my interest in participating in the recruitment process. As a digital marketing manager with 8+ years of experience, I am optimistic that I would succeed in this role.

Top cover letter example

Since you already know how to write the header, here is only the main part of the cover letter.

” I am writing regarding the Marketing Manager position you currently have open. As a marketer with over 5 years of experience managing small and larger teams, I would love to take a challenge and work for your company. Marketing is my passion, so it’s to achieve monthly goals, generate new leads & sales, and train the team for success.

In my previous role at (company name), I reached not only the set marketing goals but exceeded them by 80% and, in some months, even 120%. Your company (name) already has brilliant strategies in place, you use paid advertising, social media, and outreach, but I would add other channels to ramp up the reach and revenue. I am experienced and knowledgeable in the SEO scene; hence we can explore new opportunities for your business in this area of marketing.

My previous team of marketing assistants was great! I love to work with people and guide them in our current strategies. At the same time, responsibility for people does not make me stressed or scared but ignites my motivation to bring even better results so we can all be proud as a team.

Besides, my Master’s degree in Business taught me fundamental knowledge about organizations, management, strategy, and agility, which I would be happy to apply when working for (company).

It will be great to talk in person one day. You can reach me at 123456789 any time or via email at [email protected] to arrange an interview. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

Cover letter for a visa application

Im most cases, Immigration New Zealand, will request a cover or so-called motivational letter together with your visa application. This is generally a less complex document that you would write for the employer.

Your cover letter for a visa should include:

• Reasons why you are moving or visiting New Zealand
• How are you going to support yourself
• Demonstration of how you meet the criteria for the visa

The content of the cover letter will vary depending on the visa type you are applying for. If it’s, for instance, to join a partner in New Zealand, you should include your relationship to them and explain it briefly.

Therefore, your cover letter should target your visa category’s main requirements. 

When I was applying for a student visa, my cover letter described why I decided to study in New Zealand and what are my plans after my studies. Immigration New Zealand also mentioned in their requirements that the cover letter must include these details.

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Resumes & cover letters: Cover letter templates

A cover letter is often your first communication with a potential employer, and therefore it is vital that when writing a cover letter  you make it compelling and professional from the very first line, marking you out as a candidate they need to contact.

A good cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your written communication skills and your motivation for applying for the role. Writing a cover letter customised to the job demonstrates you have taken the time to put some effort into your application. You can also use a cover letter as an opportunity to highlight and provide more detail on any specific skills or experience which are relevant to the role you are applying for.

To help you structure your cover letter, we’ve developed 4 free cover letter templates and cover letter samples you can use to write a cover letter that will catch the eye of hiring managers and recruiters and increase your chances of getting an interview. For additional tips and advice on cover letter writing, check out our article How to write a cover letter .

Download our free cover letter templates

Cover letter template 1: response to a job ad, cover letter template 2: response to a job ad, cover letter template 3: letter to a recruiter on linkedin, cover letter template 4: ‘cold contact’ prospecting letter to a hiring manager, related insights.

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How to write a cover letter | hero banner | ub, how to write a cover letter - template & tips new zealand.

Intro + Form | UB

The importance of cover letter, what is a cover letter.

Let’s go back to basics – what is a cover letter? A cover letter acts as a personal introduction in a professional setting. Usually, it’s a separate document that you attach to a job application along with your CV. You should use it to demonstrate your personality and summarise why you are the right person for the job, so the reader can consider the rest of your CV with this set up in mind.

Follow our tips for how to write a cover letter or download our cover letter template.

Why write a cover letter? 

The idea for writing cover letters for your resume is simple: it needs to be engaging enough for an employer to read to feel compelled to find out more about your skills and experience in your resume, before (hopefully) calling you in for an interview.

Not all candidates make the effort to write a tailored and personalised cover letter, so by making sure you write a cover letter that answers specifics needs in the job ad, it’ll help separate you from other applicants. In turn, giving you a greater likelihood of being shortlisted for an interview.  

Download your Cover Letter template 

Enter your details below to download your Cover Letter template:

How to write a cover letter | Video | UB

Cover letter advice.

Recruiters & hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications for each job. You need to start with a great cover letter to gain attention. Learn how with this video from Hays.

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Resumes & cover letters.

How to write a resume

How to write a cover letter

CV hacks that work

Make your CV stand out

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Content Block - Cover Letter | UB

How long should a cover letter be , how to write a cover letter | 3rd content block | ub, cover letter format, how to write a cover letter | 4th content block | ub, 1. do your research, 2. address your cover letter to the right person, 3. how to start a cover letter write an attention-grabbing introduction, 4. add evidence of your successes  , 5. highlight key skills, 6. sign off professionally, 7. review your cover letter , how to write a cover letter | 5th content block | ub, what not to include in a cover letter, excessive details, repeat your cv, don’t write in the third person, can ai write the perfect cover letter, how to write a cover letter | 6th content block | ub, final tips around how to write a cover letter.

• Keep it succinct and relevant to the job you’re applying for. Your cover letter should not exceed five paragraphs. 
• State what your motivation is behind your application. 
• Just as you would in your CV,  use strong verbs  to demonstrate action and accomplishments, such as ‘organise’ or ‘supervise’. 
• Optimise the subject line. Also check the job description again, in case the employer asks applicants to include something specific in the subject line. 
• If you are applying for a job online rather than email, consider putting your cover letter and resume into the same document so they don’t get separated. 
• Remember, our cover letter template is free to download and can be used as another way to capture the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager and encourage them to more closely review your resume. Good luck.

How to write a cover letter | 7th content block | UB

Do i really need a cover letter, how long should a cover letter be, what are some common mistakes people make when writing cover letters, how do i format a cover letter, hays new zealand salary guide 2022-2023 - salary checker | ub.

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How to write a cover letter for your first job in New Zealand (with templates)

Writing a great cover letter for your first job can be tough. But these tips will get you on the right track.

What you’ll learn:

• What are cover letters? 
• The importance of cover letters 
• Tips for creating your first cover letter 

So, you’re wondering how to write a cover letter for your first job. 

Good on you. 

In New Zealand, these documents aren’t optional extras on top of a CV – they’re a vital part of showing you’re the right person for the job. By submitting one, you’re putting yourself on the front foot, which is what successful job hunting is all about. 

However, first cover letters aren’t easy – especially if you lack experience. To help, we’ve created this step-by-step guide on what to include, where and why. Let’s get cracking. We’ve also got a sample cover letter you can download and use for yourself when applying for jobs.

Writing an entry level cover letter doesn't have to be stressful.

What are cover letters?

A cover letter is a document you submit along with your CV when you apply for a job. In New Zealand, cover letters should be no longer than one page, and should aim to highlight your interest in the job, as well as why you’re the right person in terms of your previous skills and experience.

Why are cover letters important?

You might be asking yourself, ‘why do I need to submit a cover letter as well as a CV?”. Well, the two documents should complement each other, and neither is effective in isolation as they are together. 

On a CV, you should present your key skills and experience in short snappy bullet points that are easy for the reader to digest. A cover letter provides you the space to expand upon your CV, and the first opportunity for the hiring manager to get a handle on who you are and what you’re about. For this reason, you need to make sure that your cover letter underlines your most attractive skills and experiences so that there’s no way the reader will miss them. 

In addition, unlike a CV, which should be entirely focussed on you, a cover letter needs to explain why you’re interested in the job, and the company advertising it. Importantly, employers don’t just want to hear how skilled you are, they also want to know that you’re looking for more than just a salary. In other words, you need to explain why this role/organisation speaks to you, and why you want to work there, as opposed to simply anyone who will offer you a job. 

What’s more, a cover letter in itself shows interest. Anyone can keep the same CV on file and throw it in to any employer who’s advertising a job. However, a cover letter is more personal, and employers know they take longer to write. Therefore, if you only submit a CV, and someone submits a CV and a cover letter, guess who looks more interested from the employer’s perspective?

Tips for creating your first cover letter

1. your details.

You’ll probably submit your cover letter online, but still format it like a real letter. This means starting with:

• Your full name, contact details and home address
• The date you submit the application
• The business’ postal address

Start your cover letter like this.

Top tip : Don’t put this info into a document’s header. Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to initially scan cover letters for important details, and sometimes this software can’t read headers.

2. Introduce yourself

You should address the cover letter to a real person. This is an important personal touch that can help you stand out, and the hiring manager’s or recruiter’s name is usually given in the job listing.

If there’s no name given, check the company’s staff page and find someone (like a department head) to address it to. Even if this isn’t bang on, it shows you made the effort.

As a last resort, ‘Dear Hiring Manager’, will do the trick.

Now, there are several ways you can start your cover letter . The style you choose will largely depend on your personality, and the role you’re going for – e.g. an application for a graphic design role can probably be more creative than one for a dentist’s assistant. However, any good intro will include:

• The job title – Note: make sure you capitalise it
• Where you saw it
• A snappy one liner describing yourself
• A teaser of what you would bring to the role to get them interested

Example 1 :

“Dear Kohia Smith,

I’m writing to apply for the reporter role you’re currently listing on Trade Me Jobs. I’m a recent communications graduate with an interest in community news and digital-first reporting. I’d love to join your team and find stories that will engage and grow your readership.”

Example 2 :

“Dear Richard Hall,

I’m really excited about the Labourer position you’re currently listing on Trade Me Jobs. I’m a hard-working and highly motivated high-school graduate, keen to begin a trades career. I’d love the opportunity to join your team and develop my skills.”

Personalise your cover letter by addressing it to a real person.

3. Your skills, qualifications and attributes

Don’t worry, you can write this section of your cover letter with no experience in the field you’re applying for.

Here, you can include:

• Uni or highschool qualifications
• Volunteer experience, unpaid internships, temporary summer jobs
• Personal qualities that make you a great fit for the role

Whatever you go with, make sure to:

• Be specific
• Tie it back to the role’s requirements

“My BA in Communications Studies gave me a firm grounding in media ethics and law, and also taught me how to find, research and publish stories across platforms ranging from print to social.

I built on this with work experience at NEWSPAPER NAME last summer. As well as shadowing their reporters, I sat in on production meetings to learn how the editors decided which stories to pursue, and what formats they thought were most appropriate”.

“Holiday work in my local Four Square means I’m used to completing long shifts, remaining professional and proactive throughout. This job also emphasised communication, teamwork and problem-solving to make sure the store always met customer expectations.

I’m also physically fit, as I train with my rugby team twice a week and play a match every weekend. On top of this, I have a full, clean driver’s licence and my own transport”.

If you’re struggling to decide what skills or qualifications are most relevant to the position, a good first step is creating a Trade Me Job Profile . This tool can create a template CV based on your experiences and qualifications, which you can use as inspo for your cover letter. What’s more, Trade Me Job Profiles allow employers to approach you with opportunities you haven’t found.

Here are some tips on what Kiwi bosses want from new employees.

4. Why you’re a great fit

By now, the reader knows what you bring to the table, so it’s time to seal the deal.

You can approach this section by:

• Showing passion for their business or industry: only do this if you can make it genuine. Hint: saying you’ve always dreamt of working for a local cafe is a tad unbelievable (even if it’s true).
• Showing your eagerness to learn: this is great for entry level cover letters. Attitude goes a long way, and employers love enthusiasm and ambition.
• Talk about your values: companies today are very values driven. Showing your personal principles align with theirs suggests you’ll be a good fit.

“I now want to take my skills and experience into a fast-paced, 21st century news environment. As a longtime reader of NEWSPAPER NAME, I admire your commitment to balanced storytelling, and the way you’ve adapted to the digitalisation of news reporting,”

“The role appeals to me because I see lots of opportunities to gain new technical skills, due to the wide variety of commercial and residential projects the company takes on. I’m also keen to develop my interpersonal skills, as this is crucial to my long term ambition of managing a team of labourers in the future.”

5. End with a call to action

What do you want from your application? A job interview .

This final section is where you confidently (but politely) prompt the reader to get in touch and set up the next step.

“I believe I have the skills and experience needed to hit the ground running in this role, and I would be thrilled to join your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Rebecca Clarke.”

“I believe my past experience, attitude, and willingness to learn would make me a great fit for this role, and I would be thrilled to join your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Bradley Brown.”

And voila, one cover letter.

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A good cover letter intro is like a good espresso – short, sharp and energising. Here’s how to brew one of your own.

Along with your CV, a cover letter is essential to any NZ job application. Let's get you started.

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Develop a New Zealand-style CV

Most employers will quickly scan your CV to decide if it is worth reading in more detail. So it needs to make a good impression quickly.

What to include in your CV

New Zealand employers only want to see relevant information on your CV. They do not need a list of every job or course you have ever done.

Employers are most interested in your:

• technical and personal skills
• work experience
• qualifications and education
• community and volunteer experience.

They also like to see some evidence of how you have applied your skills.

It is best to only include relevant details of your skills and experience and to give brief examples of how you have used your skills in the past.

Skills employers are looking for | careers.govt.nz

Previous employers

Local employers may not be familiar with the organisations you have worked for overseas. It helps if you include a short description of organisations you list on your CV, like:

• the number of employees
• the location
• a website link so they can get more information if they need it.

The careers.govt.nz website has tips on how to write a CV for New Zealand employers.

How to write a CV | careers.govt.nz

Make a good impression

It is important to make a good impression of yourself as a potential employee, but not to appear too boastful about your achievements.

Many people make the mistake of writing a CV and using it for every job application. New Zealand employers expect you to adjust your CV to suit each job so that it highlights the skills that are relevant to the job.

People suggested that my CV was not what New Zealand employers would look at. Where I come from we prepare a CV in a different way: we give all our experience right from day one. Here, nobody likes to read a story! Darshan Desai

Cover letters

Most New Zealand employers expect a cover letter with your CV when you apply for a job. A cover letter is a ‘sales pitch’ about why you think you are ideal for the job.

Your cover letter should:

• briefly introduce yourself
• outline your main relevant skills and experience
• make an argument for why you are the right person for the specific job.

Just like your CV, it should focus on details that are relevant to the job you are applying for and it should be brief – no longer than 1 page.

Use a formal and persuasive style when writing a cover letter. It is a good idea to have a generic letter that you can adjust to match the job description you are applying for.

How to write a cover letter | careers.govt.nz

Your qualifications

Remember to bring your qualifications with you to New Zealand. If you are sending them in with an application, send a copy. Keep the originals safe and get copies made and certified. If you are in New Zealand, a Justice of the Peace (JP) can certify them.

Find a JP | Royal Federation of New Zealand Justices' Associations

Helpful resources

The careers.govt.nz website has many resources that can help you to make a New Zealand-style CV and cover letter. There is material to help you:

• understand the parts of a CV
• learn how to put transferable skills on your CV
• learn how to write a cover letter
• fill in job application forms.

CV and cover letter templates | careers.govt.nz

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The perfect cover letter for the New Zealand market

Covering letters are a unique selling tool when approaching a prospective employer directly, and are vitally important to applications sent by overseas candidates. This is your chance to capture the attention of a New Zealand employer and demonstrate the qualities that set you apart from the other applicants.

KEEP IT BRIEF

Your cover letter should ideally not exceed one A4 side, with well-spaced lines.

TAILOR EACH COVER LETTER TOWARDS THE JOB LISTING

Wherever possible, account point-by-point for each of the requirements listed by the employers and detail how you are qualified to meet these requirements.

BE CLEAR AND CONCISE

Use strong, active verbs that demonstrate actions and accomplishments, for example, ‘organise’ and ‘supervise.’

FIND OUT THE DETAILS OF THE CONTACT PERSON

Do a bit of research, and, if a name is not supplied try to find out who the application is going to. Do not forget to include your own contact details, though these should be on your CV regardless.

THINK ABOUT THE STRUCTURE

Your letter should include an introduction and identification of the position (for example, the reference number used in the job advert), relevant qualifications and your current position, and a summary of how you meet their core skill set.

ADDRESS THE EMPLOYER’S ESSENTIAL CRITERIA/CORE SKILLSET

Identify your skills, experience and attributes that match the employer’s criteria. It can sometimes be helpful to use the same headings that they have supplied, with a short sentence or two addressing each one. Look for keywords that reveal what attributes they are looking for, and show how you embody them. If you can demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria, you will greatly increase your chances of an interview.

PROOFREAD YOUR LETTER PROPERLY

Again, this should go without saying. Have a trusted friend or colleague to review both your CV and cover letter, prior to applying. It is vital that there are no errors if you want to be taken seriously.

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CVs and cover letters

Take the hard work out of writing your CV and cover letter. Get advice about what to write, support to show you what to do, and free templates you can use.

When you apply for a job, employers will look at your:

• CV, to see your skills, any qualifications, and your work history
• cover letter, to find out what kind of person you are and why you want this job.

They'll use this to decide if they want to interview you, so it's really important to make a good impression.

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'build my cv' service.

A free service to help you write or rewrite your CV and cover letter. It's run by the Auckland Business Chamber, and it's available online and by phone throughout New Zealand.

You can sign up if you're getting Jobseeker Support or Sole Parent Support.

If you've been getting one of these benefits for less than 12 months, you can sign up through MyMSD:

If you've been getting one of these benefits for more than 12 months talk to your local service centre or call our Job Search line on 0800 779 009 .

Step-by-step CV builder

A free, interactive tool from Careers.govt.nz.

• Makes sure your CV has all the information employers look for.
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• Your CV will save automatically to your account, and you can download, print and email it in Word and PDF.

How to write a cover letter

Careers.govt.nz has great advice about:

• what your cover letter needs
• how to make it look good
• templates you can use.

Caregiver Cover Letter Example

Successful cover letter formatting for caregivers: 

At cvapp.nz, we're committed to delivering powerful results to our users. That's why we've designed this guide to boost your chances of professional success! As a caregiver, you have the opportunity to offer compassionate support to your community, enhance the well-being of others, and create a meaningful difference in the lives of others. In this cover guide, we’ll go over how to convey this professional value to employers, how to format your cover letter, and share our top career tips to maximise your chances of success. After helping countless professionals in their career journeys, we've figured out the essential ingredients that make every cover letter successful. To create a job-winning cover letter, you’ll need the following: 

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs
• Conclusion (with a great call-to-action statement!)

Plus, if you need some inspiration, you can check out our free customisable caregiver cover letter example below to help you get started! Ready? Let’s go!

Dear Mr. Inglis,

As a caregiver with over six years experience serving the Wellington community, I am delighted to apply for a caregiver position at Riverwood Retirement Village. I'd love the opportunity to provide exceptional care to the residents of Riverwood Retirement Village. I pride myself on my commitment to community care. Thank you for your time and consideration.

With my many years of experience as a caregiver in both Wellington and Auckland, I have gained deeper understanding of the physical and emotional needs of patients. In my previous positions, I've helped management develop care plans, assisted with daily activities with residents at previous retirement villages and care homes, and provided emotional support to clients of varying ages and conditions. It has been a privilege to serve my community.

In my professional journey, I have consistently demonstrated excellent communication abilities. This has allowed me to successfully work together with both clients and their families. I take pride in my knack for establishing a secure and welcoming atmosphere for those in my care. Moreover, I have outstanding problem-solving skills and the ability to quickly adapt to new situations. Living in Wellington has truly opened my eyes to our diverse community and its strong commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare services. It has also inspired me to contribute my skills and expertise to my local community.

As a caregiver, I am known for my strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail. I'm passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of those I care for, and confident that my qualifications and experience will make me an excellent candidate for this position. I'd love to discuss how my skills can contribute to Riverwood Retirement Village's mission to provide exceptional care and support to the Wellington community.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my CV for your review, and I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you further to discuss how I can contribute to Riverwood Retirement Village.

Ngā mihi, 

Rawiri Benson

Cover letter header

Employers typically pay close attention to the header when reviewing a cover letter. Why? Well, the header contains crucial details, such as your name, current job title, phone number, email address, and sometimes links to professional networking sites like LinkedIn. Potential employers need to know how to get in touch with you, so they’ll check out your header to find out how to contact you. Be sure to include accurate and up-to-date contact information – nobody wants to miss out on a job opportunity because of a typo! You can also include links to other websites showcasing your professional skills, including your professional portfolio or your LinkedIn profile if you have one. 

A well-designed cover letter header is essential, which is why at cvapp.nz, we have a selection of sophisticated layouts, attractive fonts, and captivating colour combinations to ensure that your header immediately captures the interest of employers. 

Cover letter greeting

Is a cover letter greeting really that important? Yup you bet! It’s essential to choose a polite and formal greeting to ensure that your cover letter is well-received. Potential employers want to feel acknowledged and respected, so it’s best to avoid language and greetings that could be interpreted as impolite or unprofessional by potential employers. Whenever possible, we always suggest including the recipient's name if it is known. One effective way to begin your cover letter is by using a personalised greeting such as "Dear Mrs. Smith" or "Dear Mr. Ranginui." Using the recipient’s name can make your cover letter feel tailored to the job role and establish a connection with potential employers. 

Check out a great cover letter greeting example below: 

Cover letter introduction

Your cover letter introduction summarises who you are as a professional, your motivations for applying for the job role, and why you’re the ideal candidate for the role. We know you’re fantastic, but how can you convey this to potential employers? Introductions also set the tone for your relationship with potential employers: so it's important we get it right! Don’t stress too much about the details: you can expand upon these in your body paragraphs: the main goal of a cover letter introduction is to encourage employers to continue reading your cover letter. 

Before you begin writing your introduction, we recommend researching the company you're applying to. By doing so, you can gain valuable insights into their company mission, values, and overall tone of voice – and you can also prepare yourself for any potential interview opportunities you may have with employers! 

Body Paragraphs

Your body paragraphs are the most important part of your cover letter, and in this section, you'll want to focus on presenting yourself as the ideal candidate for the role. Here, you’ll want to include detailed information about your work history and educational background if relevant, skillfully relating them back to the job requirements. You'll need to thoroughly read over the job description to gain a good understanding of what your potential employers are looking for. You might like to consider highlighting the unique abilities and attributes that make you stand out as a caregiver and share any relevant skills you have, such as strong communication skills or any specialised training you have received. 

Additionally, you can demonstrate your understanding of the specific needs and challenges that caregivers face. Showcase your ability to provide compassionate and individualised care, emphasising the impact you can make on the lives of those you serve. You can also discuss your genuine passion for helping others and maintaining a safe and comfortable environment. Remember: personalisation is key when writing a cover letter. It's important to tailor your paragraphs to align with the requirements and preferences of the employer and job role. By doing so, you can demonstrate a genuine interest in the role and make your cover letter stand out.

Check out our body paragraphs example below: 

Conclusion 

The conclusion of your cover letter should focus on expressing your appreciation to the potential employer for considering your application and include a call-to-action statement. What’s a call-to-action statement? Basically, it’s a prompt that conveys your enthusiasm to connect with employers further. For example: "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of connecting with you to discuss how my skills and qualifications align with the requirements of the role. Would you be available next week to discuss the requirements of this job role?" This motivates employers to reach out and increases your overall chances of landing the job. Woo-hoo! 

Finally, you can close your cover letter with a warm, friendly sign-off.  Choose a closing such as "Yours sincerely," "Ngā mihi nui," or "Kind regards” is a great way to end your cover letter. 

Good luck – you got this!

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How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter for a NZ Partnership Visa Application

May 18, 2023

Applying for a partnership-based visa can be a lengthy and complicated process. However, one of the most important parts of your application is the cover letter.

The cover letter helps you explain your relationship, demonstrate how you meet the criteria, and persuade Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to grant you a visa.

Many applicants think that writing a brief letter stating their connection and love for their partner is enough, but that’s usually not the case. In reality, the cover letter allows you to showcase your relationship and convince the INZ case officer that your relationship is genuine and committed. Hence writing a compelling cover letter is crucial.

In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a convincing cover letter for a partnership-based visa application. By following our tips and tricks, you will be able to structure your letter, address potential issues, and include all the necessary information to make your application a success.

• Understand the eligibility criteria:

Before you begin writing your cover letter, it is essential to understand the eligibility requirements for your partnership visa application. You should read the INZ website to determine the main requirements for your visa category. Be sure to review the requirements carefully so that you can tailor your letter to meet the specific criteria.

For example, if you are applying for a partnership-based resident visa, you need to demonstrate that you have lived together for at least 12 months before applying for the visa.

• Structure your letter:

In the cover letter, you need to describe your relationship with your partner and how it has developed over time.

Your cover letter should consist of four main parts: an introduction, your relationship history, how you meet the eligibility criteria, and a conclusion.

Start with an attention-grabbing introduction that sets out the purpose of your letter and your reasons for applying for the visa. Next, provide a detailed account of your relationship, how you met, and your plans for the future. The third part of your letter should answer how you meet the criteria for your visa category. You should be explicit in demonstrating how your relationship meets each criterion. Finally, conclude your letter by summarizing why you believe that you and your partner meet the requirements for the visa category.

• Include supporting evidence:

Your cover letter should include any supporting evidence that demonstrates your relationship meets the criteria for the visa category.

It’s not enough to say that you are in a committed relationship ; you must demonstrate it with evidence. For example, you can provide photographs, proof of joint bank accounts, or joint utility bills that show that you have been living together. You should also explain each piece of evidence and how it helps to support your claim. Be sure to provide a clear and concise explanation so the reader understands each document’s relevance.

Failing to provide evidence to support your claims can harm your application and lead to a visa refusal.

• Address potential issues:

If you anticipate there may be any potential issues with your application; you should address them in your cover letter. This may include any previous visa refusals or convictions. You should explain the circumstances surrounding the issue and how you have taken steps to rectify the situation. It is important to address these issues proactively, as it demonstrates your transparency and willingness to comply with the relevant immigration instructions of INZ.

• Proofread and edit your letter:

Your cover letter should be well-written, clear, and concise. Be sure to proofread and edit your letter carefully before submitting your application. Look for any grammatical errors or spelling mistakes, and ensure that your letter flows logically from one point to the next.

Writing a convincing cover letter for your partnership visa application is crucial in your visa journey. By following our step-by-step guide, you can structure your letter, address any potential issues, and provide the necessary evidence to demonstrate that you and your partner meet the requirements for the visa category. Remember to tailor your letter to meet the specific criteria and to proofread and edit your letter before submitting your application. With determination, effort, and the right amount of preparation, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your dreams of living in New Zealand with your partner.

A common mistake individuals make is not seeking professional advice when writing cover letters. It’s best to seek advice from a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), like us, who can guide you throughout the application process. The LIA can assist you in drafting a compelling cover letter that addresses all the requirements of the partnership-based visa category and provides evidence to support your claims. Seeking professional advice can improve your chances of a positive outcome.

So, are you and your partner dreaming of a life together in New Zealand? Let  Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd  help you! Our expert Licensed Immigration Advisers can guide you through the visa application process and improve your chances of success. Start your partnership-based visa application today by clicking here

You can also contact us at [email protected] or call on +64 09 3790219.

Author Details

Vandana Rai

(lia 201400900).

Vandana Rai is a Senior Licensed Immigration Adviser and has built a reputation around her rare set of skills, which could be considered ideal for her legal profession.

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