Work in New Zealand as a Motor Mechanic / Automotive Technician

Automotive Mechanic/Technicians provide services to vehicle owners by servicing, diagnosing and repairing their petrol vehicles using their technical skills and abilities. Mechanics fix a variety of problems through diagnostic equipment and replace parts and systems as required.

• Motor Mechanics – General, specialise in petrol engines and mechanical parts
• Diesel Mechanics specialise in Diesel engines and heavy vehicles mechanical parts
• Motorcycle Mechanics specialist in motorcycle engines and mechanical parts
• Small Engine Mechanics specialise in engines and parts of smaller equipment

According to the Australia/New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations, tasks may include for a motor mechanic:

• detecting and diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults in engines and parts
• dismantling and removing engine assemblies, transmissions, steering mechanisms and other components, and checking parts
• repairing and replacing worn and defective parts and reassembling mechanical components, and referring to service manuals as needed
• performing scheduled maintenance services, such as oil changes, lubrications and engine tune-ups, to achieve smoother running of vehicles and ensure compliance with pollution regulations
• reassembling engines and parts after being repaired
• testing and adjusting mechanical parts after being repaired for proper performance
• diagnosing and testing parts with the assistance of computers
• may inspect vehicles and issue roadworthiness certificates or detail work required to achieve roadworthiness
• may respond to vehicle breakdown service calls

Where are the jobs?

Currently all regions in New Zealand have an Immediate Skills Shortage of Automotive Mechanic/Technicians are in need. Diesel Mechanics are particularly in demand due to the ongoing infrastructure and roadworks in New Zealand, which require heavy machinery.

Experience Automotive Mechanic/Technicians are in demand

The demand for mechanics in New Zealand is high, specifically petrol and diesel mechanics, both required nationwide.

Motor Mechanic – General (Petrol) is on the current Immediate skill shortage list, and the competency requirements are as follows:

A certificate at NZQF Level 4, or a higher qualification, which includes the credit and knowledge requirements of a New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4)
AND
a minimum of three years' relevant post-qualification work experience

Diesel Mechanic - including Heavy Vehicle Inspector is on the long term skill shortage list, required standard as follows:

A certificate at NZQF Level 4, or a higher qualification, which includes the credit and knowledge requirements of the New Zealand Certificate in Heavy Automotive Engineering (NZQF Level 4)
AND
a minimum of three years' relevant post-qualification work experience

Career path

Once you gain experience in this field, you can become specialised in certain areas of the trade, such as precision engines for racing or high end luxury vehicles.

Income and Employment Prospects

Your pay varies on the skills, experience and the type / complexity of work that you will do.

• Light Vehicle Mechanic Usually earn $20 – $37 per hour
• Heavy Vehicle Mechanics usually earn $26-$39 per hour

Do you have what it takes to work as an Automotive / Diesel Mechanic in New Zealand?

According to ANZSCO, an Automotive Mechanic/Technician is a skill level 3 occupation and requires either a level 4 or above qualification or at least 3 years of relevant work experience.

Registration is not required although certain certifications exist to qualify as a vehicle inspector.

Useful links 

• Careers website
• Occupation Outlook