2026 winter applications are now closed

Thank you to everyone who has applied so far. Successful applicants can expect to receive an email in March/early April to arrange a video interview.
We receive a large number of applications each season, and as such we are only able to reply to successful applicants for next steps.

Who are we looking for when we employ a team?

We are looking for a team that is dedicated to delivering a great guest experience. If you bring a great attitude, energy and positivity, are able to work under pressure, love the outdoors and its challenging environment, Porters will be a great fit! We will do our best to ensure your time with us leaves you with great memories and new skills.

At Porters, we employ around 80 team members during the winter season, which runs from late June to late September. We also have part-time positions for the July school holidays and weekends.

Our guests are at the centre of everything we do. They expect the very best when it comes to safety, snow conditions and customer service. You will be part of a small, hardworking team. Although the work can be challenging on occasions, you will have plenty of time to learn or improve your ski and/or snowboarding skills as well as joining us in some great social events.

Further Employment Details

Visas

If you are not a New Zealand passport holder, you will need a valid New Zealand visa that allows you to live and work legally in New Zealand. Most of our overseas staff join us on a Working Holiday Visa, but you may be eligible for other visa categories depending on your nationality and circumstances.

The visas can be applied for through the New Zealand Embassy of your country.
Please note that the visa must be applied for in your home country – Working Holiday Visas are not issued once you are in New Zealand.

For further information on visas for New Zealand, please refer to the New Zealand Immigration website.

Pay Rates

Pay rates start from $23.95 per hour but this varies depending on position and experience. Hours of work and length of employment can vary with weather and snow conditions. We are looking for team members who can make a commitment for the entire season.
During the peak season, most full-time employees can expect to work 5 days per week and 35-40 hours.

Accommodation

Our staff accommodation quarters on the mountain are reserved predominantly for our mountain staff who are required for night shifts or early starts (e.g. Patrol, Snowmakers, Groomers).
For staff members of other departments, we highly recommend them to source their own accommodation. We may be able to assist with finding suitable accommodation for you in the local area as required, however we have found that it works best for staff when they are able to find their own accommodation and liaise directly with their own landlords.

Most of our off-mountain staff live in Springfield, Sheffield and its neighbouring areas. The furthest that our staff tend to live is usually around Darfield, Coalgate, or Oxford.
We have found that the most effective way to source accommodation is through searching on local community Facebook groups.
We can offer more information and assistance with accommodation as we progress through your application process.

Transport

We have a staff shuttle bus that transports staff up to the mountain every day. The pick-up/drop-off spots are in Sheffield and Springfield. Staff who do not live within walking distance from these spots are generally expected to make their own way to the pick-up spot, although we may be able to make some adjustments to this schedule depending on circumstances.

Please note that you do not need a vehicle to work at Porters, however, our location is quite remote, and you may find it more convenient to own a car for personal use (such as grocery shopping).

Uniform and Other Equipment

We offer seasonal rentals for our staff who require skis or snowboards, however you will need to prepare your own clothing gear, including helmet, goggles, gloves, etc.

Uniform supplied will vary depending on your role on the mountain. For staff who will be working outside (like Lift Operators or Instructors) we will supply warm outerwear and gloves for you to use during your working hours. For other staff who will be based inside (like Cafe or Ticket Office) we will supply mid layers that you can wear during your shifts.

Your Application

Successful applicants can expect to receive an email in March/early April to arrange a video interview.
We receive a large number of applications each season, and as such we are only able to reply to successful applicants for next steps.