Early childhood and automotive jobs in a softer job market

New Zealand’s job market has loosened. Stats NZ reported unemployment of 5.6% in the June 2026 quarter, up from 5.4% in March and the highest since the September 2015 quarter. The underutilisation rate rose to 13.8%.

Early childhood teachers

Registered early childhood teachers are registered with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. In early learning, almost everyone counts as a children’s worker under the Children’s Act 2014. Before you start, your employer must complete a safety check, including a Police vet. Letting someone work before the check is complete is an offence, and the check is repeated every three years.

Automotive technicians

This issue doesn’t cover national data or licensing rules for automotive technicians. Requirements vary by workshop: ask about qualifications, experience and whether you need a driver licence for the role.

What employers can check

• Tests and checks should relate to doing the job safely and properly, and must respect human rights and privacy law.
• A criminal record check needs your written consent. Convictions covered by the Clean Slate scheme don’t need to be disclosed.
• Some employers make an offer conditional on satisfactory checks. If you’ve already started work, withdrawing the offer may need a proper dismissal process.