New Zealand immigration for IT skill shortage in Canterbury

The New Zealand province of Canterbury is experiencing a shortage of information communications technology (ICT) professionals, according to a study by Lincoln University. Britons considering New Zealand immigration to Christchurch and other regional towns can expect positive job opportunities.

The ICT sector contributes about NZ$1.4 billion to the Canterbury economy per year and employs over 3,000 staff. The study estimates that approximately 800 new qualified employees will be required over the next five years in the software industry and over 500 in the electronics industry.

A number of south Canterbury companies agreed with the findings of the study, telling the Timaru Herald that the shortage of high level technical support staff in Timaru was an issue. Recruitment agency Hudson said that an intermediate software developer with just three years plus experience is likely to earn over NZ$60,000.

New Zealand needs skilled migrants: Anyone interested in New Zealand immigration should complete the New Zealand Visa Bureau's online New Zealand visa assessment to see if they qualify for a New Zealand visa.