Referees on a CV in New Zealand

Reference checks are a normal part of hiring in New Zealand, and employers really do call. Good referees can be the deciding factor between two candidates. Here is how to choose them, ask them and list them on your CV.

Should you list referees on your CV?

In New Zealand, yes, usually. Listing two or three referees at the end of your CV is the most common approach, and it saves the employer a step. If you would rather not share their details with every employer (for example, if you are applying for many jobs, or your current manager doesn’t know you are looking), you can write “Referees available on request” and give the details when asked.

Who makes a good referee?

• Your current or most recent manager, the person who knows your work best.
• A previous manager or supervisor, ideally from the last five years.
• A senior colleague, client or project lead if you worked closely with them.
• For school leavers and students: a teacher, coach, lecturer, or someone you babysat or worked for.

Avoid family members and friends. Employers want someone who has seen you work.

What to include for each referee

Give their name, job title, organisation, how they know you and for how long, and their mobile number and email. Check the details are current before each application.

How to ask someone to be your referee

Always ask before you list someone. A quick call or message is enough. Tell them what kind of jobs you are applying for and what you would like them to talk about, such as your reliability, your leadership or a project you delivered together. When you get to the final stages, let them know a call may be coming. A referee who is expecting the call gives a better reference.

What can an employer ask a referee?

Usually questions about your role, your strengths, how you work with others, and whether they would employ you again. Under the Privacy Act 2020, employers should only collect information that is relevant to the job, and most ask for your permission before contacting referees.

If you are new to New Zealand

Overseas referees are fine, but give email addresses and note their time zone, because NZ employers may struggle to reach them by phone. If you can, add one local referee, even from volunteering or a short contract. It helps employers who are unsure about overseas experience.

Read our guide to writing a CV when you are new to New Zealand

Referee checklist

• Two or three referees, ideally including your most recent manager.
• Each one has agreed, and knows what roles you are applying for.
• Name, title, organisation, relationship, phone and email for each.
• Details checked and up to date.

The Tradie · Tradie CV template (NZ & Australia)

Has a referees section at the end, laid out the way NZ employers expect.

Use this template

The School Leaver · School leaver CV template (NZ)

Set up for teacher and coach referees on a first CV.

Use this template