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Types of work arrangements and hours

2oa5 Types of work arrangements and hours

Find the working arrangement that fits your career and lifestyle.

What's on this page?

Full-time work

  • Full-time work usually means a person works 40 hours a week, but could mean working between 30 and 40 hours.
  • Full-time employees sometimes work shifts, and may work outside of normal business hours. These shifts may be set hours, or change from week to week.

Part-time work

  • Part-time work means a person works a set number of hours each week, which can range from a few to around 30 hours.
  • Part-time work is a good option if you have family members to look after, are studying or have a main job with irregular hours.

Casual work

  • Casual workers are usually hired for one-off business needs or ongoing, irregular work. For example, a retail store may need extra help over the Christmas period and hire some casual staff for the month of December. 
  • Casual work can lead to full-time work and is a good way to meet people in industries you want to work in.

Contractor or freelance work

  • Contractors or freelancers are similar to casual staff, but are usually hired to do a particular piece of work. They often have specialist skills that an organisation needs for specific projects.
  • Contractors can be self-employed, or work through an agency or business.
  • Contractors may work part-time or full-time hours for a fixed period of time.

Self-employment

  • Self-employment is common in a wide range of industries and occupations in New Zealand. For example, courier drivers, plumbers and accountants are often self-employed. 
  • Self-employed workers may be contracted to work for different organisations, or have their own business and employ other staff.

Portfolio work

  • Portfolio work means working for different employers in two or more part-time roles. This can include contract or freelance work. Together, these jobs can add up to full-time work.
  • The work could be in quite different fields.

Seasonal work

  • Seasonal work can only be carried out at certain times of the year.
  • Seasonal work is usually on farms and in forests, orchards and market gardens.
  • Seasonal workers may need to move around the country to find jobs.

Updated 30 Sep 2020