🔵 Green List Tier 2 — AEWV Eligible

Boat Builder and Repairer
Immigration to New Zealand

Construct and repair wooden, fibreglass, aluminium, and composite boats and marine vessels in NZ's thriving marine industry.

ANZSCO Code
394211
ANZSCO Skill Level
Level 3
Sector
Trades
NZ Salary Range
NZ$55,000 – NZ$85,000
Visa Pathway
AEWV Eligible

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About This Occupation in New Zealand

🔵 AEWV Eligible — Skill Level 3

This is an ANZSCO Skill Level 3 occupation, qualifying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) with up to 5 years duration. After 2 years of NZ work experience you can apply for Skilled Migrant Category residence.

Boat Builders and Repairers are in demand across NZ's significant recreational and commercial marine industry. ANZSCO 394211 is Skill Level 3, qualifying directly for AEWV. NZ has a strong boatbuilding heritage — fibreglass and aluminium recreational craft, superyacht fitout, and commercial fishing vessel maintenance. Key centres: Auckland (Westhaven Marina), Nelson (fishing boats), Bay of Plenty.

NZ Salary Range for Boat Builder and Repairer

NZ$55,000 – NZ$85,000
Superyacht specialists and composite boat builders earn toward the top.

Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.

Visa Pathways for Boat Builder and Repairer

Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

⏱ 3–5 months 💰 NZ$700
  • Accredited employer job offer
  • Skill Level 3 — 5-year visa
  • Meets NZ median wage

Skilled Migrant Category (after 2 years)

⏱ 12–18 months 💰 NZ$4,050
  • 2 years NZ work experience
  • SMC points threshold met
ANZSCO Skill Level 3 Skill Level 3 — Trade qualification or AQF Certificate IV
What this means for AEWV applications:
Visa duration: Up to 5 years (Skill Level 3 is eligible for the 5-year AEWV maximum)
English evidence: Not required for Skill Level 1–3 occupations
Partner work visa: Available if earning ≥ NZ$28.00/hr (from March 2026)
Dependent children: Eligible if family income ≥ NZ$55,844/year

Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026

Required Qualifications

  • Trade qualification in boatbuilding or marine engineering (apprenticeship or equivalent)
  • Minimum 3 years post-qualification experience
  • Fibreglass, aluminium welding, or composite materials skills in high demand

Registration / Licensing: No mandatory NZ licensing.

How to Immigrate to New Zealand as a Boat Builder and Repairer

1
Gather trade qualification and portfolio showing boat construction or repair projects
2
Target boatbuilders in Auckland, Nelson, and Bay of Plenty — including superyacht companies
3
Secure a job offer from an INZ-accredited employer
4
Employer submits Job Check for Boat Builder (ANZSCO 394211)
5
Apply for AEWV — 5-year visa

Is Boat Builder and Repairer on the NZ Green List? — FAQs

Can a Boat Builder get AEWV in NZ?

Yes. Boat Builder and Repairer (ANZSCO 394211) is Skill Level 3, qualifying directly for a 5-year AEWV. NZ has a thriving marine industry in Auckland, Nelson, and Bay of Plenty.

What boat building is in demand in NZ?

Fibreglass recreational boat repair, superyacht construction and fitout, aluminium fishing boat building, and composite materials for racing yachts.

Is NZ a good place to work in boatbuilding?

Yes — NZ has an internationally recognised marine industry. America's Cup involvement, global superyacht exports, and a strong recreational boating culture make NZ one of the best countries for boatbuilding careers.

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