Hi Matt,
Firstly you need to find out whether your job title is on the
Long Term Skills Shortage List . If it is, then you should find out if your qualification is approved by INZ and using NZQA is the best way to do this if it isn't from one of the generally accepted countries. If your job title is on the LTSSL then you can apply under the Skilled Migrant Category.
To get a Work Permit and go through the
Work to Residence route would mean that you work for 2 years for the same employer and then apply for Permanent Residency. You can look on the
Immediate Skills Shortage List to see if your job is on there. You can't apply directly for residency with that but it would help you to get a WP.
This is the quick check for being able to apply for a
Work Permit . You need to find out which category suits you best.
With your 2 years work experience, it depends when you did this. If it was part of your studies or training, it doesn't count. Work experience that is allowed must be carried out after you have your qualification.
And never think that your questions are simple or stupid
. This immigration business, especially to NZ, is very complicated and we often need help to see which way to go or how to do it the right way.