How does the NZ Visa system work?

This is a big question but broadly speaking the Government sets the rules and criteria, which are outlined in the “Operations Manual” and the delivery of Visas within those rules is administered by Immigration New Zealand.

Visas are broadly split in to two categories:

Temporary Visas - which are valid for a fixed length of time and do not allow you to stay permanently, these also are usually based on your specific activities. For example, a Work Visa allows out to work, usually in a specific role with a specific employer, Student Visas allow you to study and Visitor Visas to visit and enjoy a holiday here.

Resident Visas - These create a pathway to staying permanently and are broken down in to various streams, including people wanting to invest, work or remain with family.

There are a number of other parts to the Visa system but for most people wanting to come here temporarily or permanently the above is a good summary.