As cost-of-living rises, many people would try to find ways to earn more money, in hopes of a comfortable life. With that said, working aborad could be one of the best choices to help with earning more money. Just recently, a Malaysian has shared her experience working in New Zealand, under a work-holiday visa!
M’sian woman earns RM11,364 a month by picking tomatoes in New Zealand
In a recent TikTok video, Kay has shared her experiences of becoming a tomato picker in New Zealand. According to her video, she mentioned that she would earn a minimum wage of $22.07 NZD an hour, which loosely converted would equate to about RM63.14. Working a total of 9 hours per day, 5 days a week, she shared that she’d earn a total of $4,086 NZD (RM11,364) a month. But it’s worth noting that they would pay a tax of 18-19% from their salary.
Speaking to Wau Post, Kay shared that the reason she posted the video onto TikTok was to let others know that work-holiday visas exist!
“Many people don’t know that this exist, and I want them to know that this is a great opportunity”, she said.
Working only 5 days a week, Kay gets to explore the city freely during her free time. When asked about her job in New Zealand, Kay shared that she does farmwork in New Zealand.
Earn money and create memories
“I work in a tomato farm under a glass house. Weather isn’t really a concern because we’re sheltered”, she said.
She added that her responsibility as a tomato picker would include, picking the tomatoes, trimming the leaves, cleaning and other menial tasks that they’re assigned to. One of the pros she mentioned about working in that environment is the ability to walk around throughout their working hours.
“As compared to factory workers who just sit or stand for the whole 9 hours, this is better as you get to move around”, she mentioned.
When asked if her employers provide accommodation, she mentioned that they don’t. However, there are some employers who might provide accommodation if they’re located in the rural areas. Other than that, when applying for the visa, you’re allowed to choose the industry you’d like to pursue, making it the best time to experience a new industry if you’re tired of the field you’re working in.
Enough to pay commitments and save up
As someone who has commitments in Malaysia, Kay revealed that this work-holiday visa opportunity has given her the stability of being able to pay for her commitments and save up more.
“As compared to when I was working in Malaysia, I could afford to save up more, now that I’m here”, adding that she’s also able to take short trips in New Zealand.
Prior to applying for a work-holiday visa, Kay mentioned that she felt stagnant in her job. Seeing that this is a good opportunity to have fun and have a stable income at the same time, she decided to just go for it.
“You only live once, so make it count”, she said.
Overall, Kay is very happy with the opportunity she was given and hopes that through her videos, many people can be more aware of the opportunities beyond borders.
Keep up the good work Kay, we hope your remaining stay in New Zealand turns out amazing for you!
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Also read: Breaking stereotypes: M’sian woman says she isn’t ashamed of being a butcher despite her young age