$5,000 Relocation Assistance Available for Job Seekers: If you’re a job seeker in New Zealand ready to accept work in another part of the country, you could qualify for a $5,000 relocation grant under the government’s $5K to Work initiative. This program is a lifeline for individuals who are unemployed or receiving a benefit and are offered permanent work in a new region—but need help covering the moving costs to get started.
In today’s challenging job market, financial hurdles such as moving expenses, rent deposits, and travel can make it nearly impossible to say yes to a good job in another region. That’s where this initiative comes in: it’s designed to eliminate those barriers so that more people can transition into full-time, stable employment. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know—including eligibility, what the payment covers, how to apply, and frequently asked questions.
$5,000 Relocation Assistance Available for Job Seekers
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | $5K to Work |
| Grant Amount | $5,000 (non-taxable lump sum) |
| Purpose | Help job seekers relocate for full-time work |
| Eligible Job Type | Permanent or fixed-term, 30+ hours/week (or suitable part-time) |
| Relocation Requirement | Must move to a different region within New Zealand |
| Application Method | Through Work and Income NZ |
| Repayment Clause | Applies if job ends early and benefit is resumed |
| Contact Info | Call WINZ: 0800 559 009 |
| Alternate Support | Transition to Work Grant (up to $1,500) |
| Typical Approval Time | 3–5 business days after documentation is submitted |
Relocating for work shouldn’t be an impossible dream. Thanks to New Zealand’s $5K to Work grant, job seekers can now get the financial help they need to move for the right opportunity. With rising rent, transport, and living costs, this initiative ensures your next big step isn’t blocked by up-front expenses.
If you’re unemployed or receiving a benefit and are offered a job in another region, don’t hesitate. This grant could be your chance to start over, secure long-term employment, and build a better future. Call Work and Income at 0800 559 009 today and explore whether you’re eligible.
Understanding the $5K to Work Scheme
The $5K to Work grant is a government-funded initiative run by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). It was launched to support Kiwis who are willing to work but face the practical challenge of relocating. If you’ve received a job offer that requires moving to a new town or city, the grant can cover most relocation-related costs.
This non-taxable, non-repayable payment helps with essentials like moving household items, paying bonds, and setting up your new life. It’s a forward-thinking solution to a long-standing problem—bridging the distance between people who need jobs and the places that offer them.
Importantly, this program is focused on promoting long-term employment outcomes, meaning the job must be stable and have a contract duration of more than 91 days.
Who Is Eligible for the $5,000 Job Relocation Assistance?
To qualify for the $5K to Work grant, you need to meet the following core criteria:
Be Receiving a Main Benefit
This includes:
- Jobseeker Support
- Sole Parent Support
- Supported Living Payment
If you’re the partner of someone receiving one of these benefits, you may also be eligible.
Have a Valid Job Offer
You must provide a job offer that:
- Is permanent or fixed-term (longer than 91 days)
- Offers 30 or more hours per week, OR
- Is part-time if it’s appropriate (i.e., leads to self-sufficiency)
Must Relocate Across Regions
The relocation must involve moving from one region to another, such as from Wellington to Auckland or Invercargill to Christchurch.
Start Within 28 Days
You need to start the new job within 4 weeks of applying for the grant.
Be Assessed as High Benefit Dependency Risk
MSD will evaluate your background, including work history and barriers to employment, to determine whether you’re at risk of long-term reliance on welfare.
Find the full criteria and downloadable forms on the Work and Income NZ site.
What Does the $5,000 Cover?
Here’s what you can use the grant for:
- Transportation costs (plane tickets, bus fares, petrol)
- Temporary accommodation while settling in
- Rental bond and advance rent payments
- Relocation of household goods and furniture
- Purchase of basic home furnishings
- Utility set-up costs (electricity, water, internet)
The program is designed with flexibility in mind. If your expenses fall under reasonable relocation costs, they can likely be covered.
Note: You may need to provide receipts or quotes to justify certain expenses.
$5,000 Relocation Assistance Available for Job Seekers Guide: Apply for $5K to Work
- Get a Job Offer: Ensure your new role fits the eligibility: over 91 days, and 30+ hours/week unless agreed otherwise.
- Contact WINZ: Call 0800 559 009 or visit a local Work and Income office. Tell them you’re interested in the $5K to Work grant and provide your job details.
- Complete Your Application: Fill out the application form with,
- Proof of your job offer (including hours, location, start date)
- Relocation cost estimates (e.g., truck hire, first month’s rent)
- New residential address (if already known)
- Submit and Wait: Once everything is submitted, MSD may contact your employer to verify details. If approved, the grant will be paid directly into your bank account, usually within a few business days.
Example: How the $5,000 Helped
Levi, 33, was receiving Jobseeker Support in Dunedin. He landed a full-time retail management job in Hamilton. Here’s how the grant helped him relocate:
- Plane ticket: $210
- Truck hire for furniture: $850
- Bond and two weeks’ rent: $1,800
- Temporary accommodation (3 nights): $480
- Utility setup and groceries: $600
Total: $3,940
Levi was able to move without borrowing money or using credit cards, and he is now fully employed.
If You Leave the Job Early
The grant is non-repayable under normal circumstances. However, you might need to repay some or all of it if:
- You quit without good cause within 3 months, AND
- You return to a main benefit or full-time study
This ensures the grant is used for genuine employment opportunities, not temporary fixes.
Looking for Seasonal Work? New Zealand 2025 Visa Invitations Now Open!
NZ Pension Increase for 2025? Find Out New Rates & Payment Dates!
NZ Super Payment Coming on 25 March 2025; Check Payment Status, Amount
Other Options: Transition to Work Grant (Up to $1,500)
If you don’t meet the eligibility for $5K to Work, or your move is within the same region, you may still be eligible for the Transition to Work Grant, which offers up to $1,500 to cover:
- Job-related transport costs
- Work clothing or tools
- Training or certifications
- Partial relocation costs
Learn more here: Connected.govt.nz
FAQs On $5,000 Relocation Assistance Available for Job Seekers
Q1: Can I apply after I’ve already moved?
No. You must apply before relocating. The program requires approval based on planned expenses.
Q2: Is this grant taxable?
No. The $5,000 is a non-taxable grant and doesn’t count as income.
Q3: How soon will I receive the funds?
If approved, you will usually receive payment within 3–5 working days.
Q4: Does moving within the same city count?
No. You must move to another MSD-defined region for the job to qualify.
Q5: What if I have a job that’s less than 30 hours?
It may still qualify if MSD agrees it will lead to independence from benefits.
