Work in meat processing plants, stunning, slaughtering, and dressing livestock in regulated NZ processing facilities.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Slaughterer visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →This occupation is classified as ANZSCO Skill Level 4 but is treated as Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes under INZ Appendix 7 to the Operational Manual. This is automatic — no additional conditions apply. Skill Level 3 AEWV holders get a 5-year visa, no English test, and eligible partner/dependent rights.
New Zealand's meat processing industry is a critical part of the agricultural export economy, processing tens of millions of sheep, cattle, and deer annually. Slaughterers are in sustained demand at processing plants operated by Alliance Group, Silver Fern Farms, ANZCO Foods, and other exporters. Under INZ Appendix 7 Part 1, Slaughterer (ANZSCO 831212) is automatically treated as ANZSCO Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes — no conditions required. This is one of the most accessible AEWV pathways, particularly for workers from the Philippines, Vanuatu, and Pacific Island nations with meat processing backgrounds.
Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.
Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026
Yes. Slaughterer (ANZSCO 831212) is listed in INZ Appendix 7 Part 1, automatically treated as Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes. No additional conditions are required from the employer or applicant.
The major NZ meat processors include Alliance Group, Silver Fern Farms, ANZCO Foods, Affco (Talley's Group), and Wilson Hellaby. Most have processing plants in Canterbury, Southland, Waikato, and Manawatū-Whanganui regions.
The terms overlap. ANZSCO 831212 specifically covers the slaughter process (stunning, sticking, dressing). Boners, packers and other meatworkers have different ANZSCO codes. The Appendix 7 override applies specifically to code 831212.
Enter your email and we'll match you to the best visa pathway for your situation — no commitment, no spam.
We'll be in touch within 24 hours. Unsubscribe anytime.
Speak with a licensed NZ immigration adviser. We'll review your qualifications, registration requirements, and visa options — no obligation.