The Working Holiday Visa (WHV) is probably the most popular scheme for Backpacking, as it allows you the flexibility of working whenver funds are low. The normail visa allows you to be in New Zealand for up to 2 years, and you may work for up to 12 months.

The following countries have a scheme in place:

Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Czech, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Hong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom. USA, Uraguay

The general requirements (based on the UK scheme) are:

• Be in the UK when you apply (its easier this way, it may be possible to apply while travelling)
• Hold a British passport (must be valid for 3 months after you intend to leave)
• Be 18 - 30 years old
• Have return travel booked or be able to prove you have funds
• Have $350 per month to support yourself (roughly £3k for 2 years)
• Never have held a WHV before - this is a once in a lifetime!

BUNAC

BUNAC are able to offer a 12 month Working Holiday Visa that is seperate tot he one above, meaning you can have 2 trips to New Zealand. This Visa is only available to BUNAC participants, who pay the £450 for the full program, so its not economical, but better for first time travellers. Its also available for people aged up to 35.