what visa??

[cassius]

I am moving to nz in Jan with my long term girlfriend who has been living in the uk for the past 2.5 years.
I am a trained teacher and I'm currently in the process of having my qualifications reviewed by the nzqa.
My concern is what visa I should apply for. I will apply for residency when I arrive but I am unsure what to go for in the meantime?? I have been told that a residency application will take too long to process...
I have also been told I need a work permit when I arrive if I go over on a working holiday visa...Is this true?
I would definately appreciate any help with this matter?

Hi cassius,
Well, you have a few options...

The working holiday visa - You need to be between 18 and 30 years old, have $4200 NZ spare and either a return ticket or evidence of funds to buy one. You will be granted a work permit upon your arrival in New Zealand.

Work permit - You need to have a job offer for a normal work permit, as opposed to the WHV where you dont need an offer. So you will either need an offer of employment, or secure one by going over as a visitor first.

The WHV lasts 12 months, which to be honest could be cutting it fine while waiting for your residency application, and the work permit lasts up to 24 months (sometimes extendable further) so would be your better option. You could, of course, get a WHV to enable you to work immediately, then apply for a normal work permit once you've started work.

If you need any more advice, let us know!