Part-Time Jobs at the University of Otago

As an Indian student embarking on your study abroad journey to Dunedin, New Zealand, balancing academics with part-time work can be a game-changer. It not only helps cover living expenses but also builds your resume, enhances your English skills, and immerses you in Kiwi culture. At the University of Otago, one of New Zealand's oldest and most prestigious institutions, you'll find ample opportunities to work up to 25 hours per week during the semester—thanks to the updated student visa rules effective from November 3, 2025. During holidays and breaks, you can work full-time, making it ideal for the next intake in early 2026.

Eligibility and Visa Work Rights

International students on a New Zealand student visa are permitted to work part-time while studying. Here's a quick overview:

• During Term Time: Up to 25 hours per week (increased from 20 hours in 2025 to support students like you).
• During Breaks: Full-time work with no hour restrictions, perfect for summer holidays or mid-year breaks.
• Post-Study: If you're pursuing a Master's or PhD, you may qualify for extended post-study work visas.

Note: Always check with Immigration New Zealand (INZ) for the latest updates, as rules can evolve. As an Indian student, ensure your visa conditions allow work—most full-time study visas do. You'll need an IRD (Inland Revenue Department) number to start earning; apply online via the IRD website upon arrival.

On-Campus Job Opportunities

The University of Otago prioritizes its students for casual and part-time roles, making on-campus work convenient and flexible around your lectures. These jobs often require minimal experience and offer a supportive environment to ease your transition from India.

Popular on-campus positions include:

• Library Assistants: Shelving books, helping with research queries—great for book lovers!
• Tutoring Roles: Assisting peers in subjects like maths or sciences; leverages your Indian academic strengths.
• Event Staff: Supporting university events, orientations, or sports days.
• Administrative Support: Data entry or reception in departments like the Career Development Centre.
• Café and Retail Outlets: Barista or sales roles at campus cafés and bookstores.

Check the university's CASPER job board regularly—it's your go-to for exclusive student vacancies. Many roles start at the minimum wage of NZ$23.50 per hour (as of April 2025), translating to about INR 1,200 per hour at current rates.

Off-Campus Job Opportunities in Dunedin

Dunedin, with its vibrant student population of over 20,000, buzzes with part-time gigs in hospitality, retail, and services. As a compact city, commuting is easy via bus or bike, and jobs are plentiful near the Octagon (city center).

Here's a table of common off-campus jobs tailored for international students:

Job Type	Description	Average Hourly Pay (NZ$)	Suitability for Indian Students
Hospitality (Waitstaff/Barista)	Serving in cafés, pubs, or restaurants; tips can boost earnings.	23.50 - 28.00	High—practice English and meet diverse people; weekends suit Indian festival schedules.
Retail Sales	Stocking shelves or customer service in shops like Typo or supermarkets.	23.50 - 25.00	Medium—entry-level, but involves standing; great for building sales skills.
Delivery/Courier	Bike or car deliveries for Uber Eats or local services.	24.00 - 30.00 (incl. tips)	High—flexible hours; familiar if you've used apps like Swiggy in India.
Caregiving/Support Worker	Assisting elderly or in community centers; some training provided.	25.00 - 29.00	Medium—compassionate roles; cultural sensitivity training available.
Seasonal Work	Farm or tourism jobs during breaks (e.g., vineyard picking).	24.00 - 27.00	High—full-time pay during holidays; outdoor work suits active students.

With 50+ student jobs listed on sites like Indeed and SEEK as of November 2025, you'll find something fitting your schedule. Aim for roles that align with your studies—e.g., lab assistants for science majors.

How to Find and Apply for Jobs

1. University Resources: Visit the Career Development Centre for CV workshops, interview prep, and international student-specific advice. They offer one-on-one sessions to tailor your applications.
2. Online Portals: Browse Student Job Search, SEEK, Indeed, and Jora. Use keywords like "international student Dunedin part-time."