cover letter for job application new zealand

How to write a great cover letter

A cover letter is your chance to introduce yourself to a potential employer and spark their interest in reading your resume.

When you’re prepping job applications, a cover letter might seem like an afterthought compared to your resume. But your cover letter is worth just as much attention . That doesn’t mean it needs to be overly detailed – in fact, a simple single page is best.

Here are the key points to know about cover letters, plus the steps to follow to write one.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a short letter that accompanies your resume when you apply for a role. It’s often the first point of contact you make with a potential employer, hiring manager or recruiter for a job application.

It’s a way to give the employer a sense of who you are, highlighting your skills and experience, before they read the information in your resume. Just as if you were meeting someone for the first time, you’d introduce yourself first before getting into the detail.

Sometimes, a short email can take the place of a cover letter, but the way you write it is much the same.

Take a look at this article comparing an average cover letter to a great one to help you see how to craft yours well.

How does a cover letter compare to your resume?

Your resume and cover letter complement each other but do slightly different things. Your resume summarises the key details of your skills, work experience and education. Resumes are best formatted with bullet points and broken into sections with subheadings, across about two pages.

A cover letter is shorter and sharper: a single page is best. It’s also more of a conversation opener – you’re speaking to the person responsible for the role you’re applying for, expressing your interest in the job and showing them why you’re a good fit for it.

The language in a cover letter is more personal. For example, a social worker’s resume might include, Redeveloped community youth program, increasing participation by 20 per cent. But in a cover letter you can write in the first person, which might read as, I’m a dedicated and driven social worker, with a strong commitment to supporting disadvantaged youth. It’s a chance to describe your skills and experiences in a way that also gives some insight into you and your career.

How to write your cover letter

• Start with a brief introduction about yourself and why you’re writing. Mention the job you’re applying for and your interest in it.
• Give a snapshot of the relevant skills, experience and qualifications you have that relate to the job. Think about the key two or three points in your resume and explaining these in a way that links them to why you’d be great for the role.
• Give examples of your skills or mention how you’ve used them – you might need to do this in more detail if the job ad requests that you address selection criteria.
• Note that your resume is attached. To finish, you can say that you’d welcome the opportunity to meet to discuss the role, or that you’re happy to provide more information, before signing off.

How to make your cover letter stand out

A cover letter should be engaging – you want to capture the interest of the person reading it so that they turn to your resume to find out more.

It’s also about showing the employer how your skills and experience are a good match for the role. That’s why you should always create a cover letter especially for the role you’re applying for – it shouldn’t be a generic letter. These tips can help you tailor your cover letter to the job.

A good cover letter can also demonstrate your written communication skills. Write for the environment you’re applying to: if it’s a more informal workplace or a creative type of work, don’t be afraid to inject some personal style into your writing to stand out.

Reading the 5 things employers wish they could say about cover letters and what recruiters look for in cover letters can also help you to write one that will impress.

Quick tips for improving your cover letter

• Use clear, concise language. It’s best to avoid complicated or flowery wording.
• Avoid overly long sentences. Try reading it aloud to see if there are any you struggle with.
• Always tailor your cover letter to the job. An application is all about showing how you’re a good fit for the role on offer, and you don’t want your cover letter to seem reused.
• Rather than writing ‘To whom it may concern’ or ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, find out who to address your letter to; you could phone the company to ask. It’s more personal that way and shows you’ve taken initiative.
• Triple check your spelling and grammar. Try printing your letter out then coming back to it fresh, or get someone with a keen eye to look over it for you.
• Keep your letter to around 250-350 words on a single page.
• Take a look at these examples of cover letters written by successful job seekers .

Writing your cover letter might feel intimidating at first when you’re facing a blank page. But by following these steps and tips, you can focus on crafting a cover letter that captures what you can bring to the role and makes a winning impression to the employer.

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How To Master a Cover Letter for New Zealand [Examples & Tips]

Although you might don’t want to, yet in most cases, you need to include a cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. NZ cover letter is similar to other countries; it should show the company why you are the right candidate for the job. Take your time to write a personal and customized letter. Never send the generic one; this can ruin your application from the start.

A cover letter is a monumental part of your job application in New Zealand. A good cover letter should answer the main question, which is why the company should hire you. Additionally, it must provide information on how you can bring value to the company and help them with the challenges. A cover letter should showcase the relevant skills and experience you have.

In most cases, businesses and recruiters in New Zealand will require you to attach a customized cover letter. And it’s a good thing for you. In the end, the cover letter is a claim for the role – it’s your chance to highlight and match your experience against the job description and to clearly state what you can offer your potential employer.

If you are looking for a job in New Zealand, I would highly recommend going through the Job Hunter’s handbook made by Careers.govt.nz.

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Is a cover letter necessary in New Zealand?

Unfortunately, yes, you need to include a customized cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. Almost  half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. A high-quality, customized cover letter tells the manager you are a dedicated professional. It should be only a page long.

A resume or CV alone can show your achievements and qualifications, but it can’t tell the story and explain why you choose this company in particular. That’s why we need a cover letter. It’s also a great tool to show your personality and motivation. It must show the employer you are an asset to their company.

Are you resigning from your previous job? Read how to write a proper resignation letter .

Resignation Letter in New Zealand (Examples + Template)

Tips and guidance for a winner cover letter

So what is a cover letter, and why it’s so important for your job application in New Zealand?

• Cover letter is your first point of contact with employers .
• It should fit on one page .
• It needs to explain why you want this job .
• It should relate to your CV .
• It should describe your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments .
• It should show the evidence that you have researched the company and that you are the right candidate.

If you follow these simple statements, you should already be able to create a decent letter. Yet, if you want more, read this article to the end and follow the advice.

The winning tactic here is focusing on  them , not just on  you,  which will ultimately make you stand out from other applicants

When writing your cover letter, pay attention to the following:

• Do very extensive research about the company. Show it in the cover letter.
• Reflect on the company’s vision.
• Highlight specific achievements and successes that show you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
• Show your personality.
• Prove that you understand the challenges of the company.
• Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
• Presents how your skills and experience as a solution for the company.
• Create a list of job keywords that are mentioned in the job ad. Include them in the cover letter.
• Address the cover letter to the right person, e.g., the hiring manager or recruiter
• Be clear and concise
• Have a structure in the letter – beginning, middle, end
• Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
• Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
• Try to be funny
• Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
• Forget your full contact details
• Generic and boring opening paragraph
• Copy-paste from the CV or job ad
• Start every sentence with “I”
• Write more than one page

Looking for a job? Check out the best recruitment agencies in New Zealand .

Best Recruitment Agencies in New Zealand 2024

1. Research about the company and position

Your knowledge about the company you are applying to work for is crucial. You must also know all the essential details about the advertised position and how your skills and experience fit in.

When someone reads your cover letter, they must be sure you are the right candidate for this position and for this company. That’s why you must include as many tailored to the job ad details as possible (yet not too many).

So, look for information on the company, its key products or services, its mission, and anything else that gives you an insight into them. Notice the most important details and mention them in the cover letter where appropriate.

You might want to check out the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and LinkedIn profiles.

The culture of the organization is vital to note. This will influence your communication style. For instance, you might be more casual with start-ups or advertising agencies but more formal with banks and large corporations.

2. Show how you can help

A company hires you to solve a problem or to help with challenging tasks they are unable to manage. Point out the things you can do for a company and which potential results it might bring. Or maybe you already were challenged with similar tasks? Mention it in your cover letter!

3. Why are you a perfect fit?

The second paragraph of your cover letter should give a clear idea to the reader why you are the one and that you will satisfy the company’s specific needs.

Here you should match the keywords mentioned in the job ad with your skills and experience. You also must show the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. Include all the enthusiasm and passion you have.

Match your skills with a job ad

Highlight the key skills and qualities in the ad, e.g.:

• strong written and verbal communication
• technical skills
• analytical thinking
• team player or teamwork
• problem-solving
• time management
• knowledge of software & tools
• specialized or technical competencies
• high level of computer competency
• ability to work well under pressure
• enthusiasm and initiative
• excellent customer service

Include them in the cover letter with real-life examples.

Connections matter in New Zealand

About 70% of all jobs in New Zealand are so-called hidden. They are simply not advertised because hiring managers seek candidates within the company, their circle of colleagues, and people they know before they post a job ad. For that reason, having connections in New Zealand is very crucial.

You are more likely to be invited to an interview if you know a friend of a friend and they got a reference they you rather than just based on your qualifications and experience.

That might be good news for some and bad news for others. Nonetheless, it’s highly recommended to start networking as soon as you land in New Zealand. Join groups, participate in social and professional events, work on your Linkedin profile, and just be proactive.

And if you are lucky to know someone in the company you are applying to work for, mention it in the first sentence or two of your cover letter.

Don’t forget to include

Your cover letter shouldn’t miss these small but key elements:

Your personal value and personality

While skills and experiences are indeed critical, New Zealanders love human connection. If they find you an interesting and nice person, they are more likely to move forward with your application.

Try to be personal in your cover letter; tell them more unique things about you and your experience. Avoid being general at any cost.

Reflect on your experience that relates to the job ad and company profile. What challenges have you faced, and how did you solve them? You also want to provide evidence of the things you mention by using concrete examples, situations, numbers, and facts. For example:

“During the last quarter, my company was challenged by the supply shortage of …We have had 200% more orders than we can ever fulfill. To solve this problem, I was on the lookout for new suppliers for several weeks; after dozens of selling calls, I finally managed to sign a contract with our best supplier so far. I will never come across them otherwise.”

Your enthusiasm

In many cases, people don’t get hired because they aren’t enthusiastic and convincing enough. So, it’s not the lack of skills; it’s your desire and how you show it. If you make it as if it was your dream job, you are more likely to be invited. Avoid at any cost writing in a manner as you are doing a company a favor by working for them.

Hiring managers even say, “Enthusiasm conveys personality.” Some tips that help you to point out your enthusiasm include:

• Show that you have thought about the job and why you would like to work for them.
• Why is this company so brilliant? What they do the best? How they stand out?
• Mention their reputation, performance, and product.
• Remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you.

NZ cover letter structure

Following the formal structure when piecing together a cover letter is as much as important as its content. So, make sure you stick to New Zealand standards. Here is an example:

Dear [Ms. or Mr. Surname],

• Opening – Explain why you are writing this letter (add an interesting one-liner summarizing why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business.)
• Explain your interest in the job, show knowledge about the company and position
• Demonstrate your skills and experience related to the job
• Explain why you will fit into this role and which value you will bring to the company
• Sign off and offer them to contact you

Yours sincerely,

Your name – Andrew Black.

Make sure you check your cover letter via Grammarly for spelling and grammar mistakes!

Cover letter introduction

The introduction sentences will determine whether the hiring manager will read on or skip your resume. Start your cover letter in an unconventional way and hold the reader’s interest. Here are some tips for a stellar introduction:

• Highlight your achievements in the industry.
• Display your passion and enthusiasm.
• Mention some names and numbers.

A no-go cover letter introduction looks like this:

In response to your posting for the Digital Marketing Manager position, I would like to express my interest in participating in the recruitment process. As a digital marketing manager with 8+ years of experience, I am optimistic that I would succeed in this role.

Top cover letter example

Since you already know how to write the header, here is only the main part of the cover letter.

” I am writing regarding the Marketing Manager position you currently have open. As a marketer with over 5 years of experience managing small and larger teams, I would love to take a challenge and work for your company. Marketing is my passion, so it’s to achieve monthly goals, generate new leads & sales, and train the team for success.

In my previous role at (company name), I reached not only the set marketing goals but exceeded them by 80% and, in some months, even 120%. Your company (name) already has brilliant strategies in place, you use paid advertising, social media, and outreach, but I would add other channels to ramp up the reach and revenue. I am experienced and knowledgeable in the SEO scene; hence we can explore new opportunities for your business in this area of marketing.

My previous team of marketing assistants was great! I love to work with people and guide them in our current strategies. At the same time, responsibility for people does not make me stressed or scared but ignites my motivation to bring even better results so we can all be proud as a team.

Besides, my Master’s degree in Business taught me fundamental knowledge about organizations, management, strategy, and agility, which I would be happy to apply when working for (company).

It will be great to talk in person one day. You can reach me at 123456789 any time or via email at [email protected] to arrange an interview. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

Cover letter for a visa application

Im most cases, Immigration New Zealand, will request a cover or so-called motivational letter together with your visa application. This is generally a less complex document that you would write for the employer.

Your cover letter for a visa should include:

• Reasons why you are moving or visiting New Zealand
• How are you going to support yourself
• Demonstration of how you meet the criteria for the visa

The content of the cover letter will vary depending on the visa type you are applying for. If it’s, for instance, to join a partner in New Zealand, you should include your relationship to them and explain it briefly.

Therefore, your cover letter should target your visa category’s main requirements. 

When I was applying for a student visa, my cover letter described why I decided to study in New Zealand and what are my plans after my studies. Immigration New Zealand also mentioned in their requirements that the cover letter must include these details.

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How to Write a Cover Letter: Template & Tips | Hays

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The importance of cover letter, what is a cover letter.

Let’s go back to basics – what is a cover letter? A cover letter acts as a personal introduction in a professional setting. Usually, it’s a separate document that you attach to a job application along with your CV. You should use it to demonstrate your personality and summarise why you are the right person for the job, so the reader can consider the rest of your CV with this set up in mind.

Follow our tips for how to write a cover letter or download our cover letter template.

Why write a cover letter? 

The idea for writing cover letters for your resume is simple: it needs to be engaging enough for an employer to read to feel compelled to find out more about your skills and experience in your resume, before (hopefully) calling you in for an interview.

Not all candidates make the effort to write a tailored and personalised cover letter, so by making sure you write a cover letter that answers specifics needs in the job ad, it’ll help separate you from other applicants. In turn, giving you a greater likelihood of being shortlisted for an interview.  

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Cover letter advice.

Recruiters & hiring managers often receive hundreds of applications for each job. You need to start with a great cover letter to gain attention. Learn how with this video from Hays.

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How long should a cover letter be , how to write a cover letter | 3rd content block | ub, cover letter format, how to write a cover letter | 4th content block | ub, 1. do your research, 2. address your cover letter to the right person, 3. how to start a cover letter write an attention-grabbing introduction, 4. add evidence of your successes  , 5. highlight key skills, 6. sign off professionally, 7. review your cover letter , how to write a cover letter | 5th content block | ub, what not to include in a cover letter, excessive details, repeat your cv, don’t write in the third person, can ai write the perfect cover letter, how to write a cover letter | 6th content block | ub, final tips around how to write a cover letter.

• Keep it succinct and relevant to the job you’re applying for. Your cover letter should not exceed five paragraphs. 
• State what your motivation is behind your application. 
• Just as you would in your CV,  use strong verbs  to demonstrate action and accomplishments, such as ‘organise’ or ‘supervise’. 
• Optimise the subject line. Also check the job description again, in case the employer asks applicants to include something specific in the subject line. 
• If you are applying for a job online rather than email, consider putting your cover letter and resume into the same document so they don’t get separated. 
• Remember, our cover letter template is free to download and can be used as another way to capture the attention of a recruiter or hiring manager and encourage them to more closely review your resume. Good luck.

How to write a cover letter | 7th content block | UB

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Resumes & cover letters: Cover letter templates

A cover letter is often your first communication with a potential employer, and therefore it is vital that when writing a cover letter  you make it compelling and professional from the very first line, marking you out as a candidate they need to contact.

A good cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your written communication skills and your motivation for applying for the role. Writing a cover letter customised to the job demonstrates you have taken the time to put some effort into your application. You can also use a cover letter as an opportunity to highlight and provide more detail on any specific skills or experience which are relevant to the role you are applying for.

To help you structure your cover letter, we’ve developed 4 free cover letter templates and cover letter samples you can use to write a cover letter that will catch the eye of hiring managers and recruiters and increase your chances of getting an interview. For additional tips and advice on cover letter writing, check out our article How to write a cover letter .

Download our free cover letter templates

Cover letter template 1: response to a job ad, cover letter template 2: response to a job ad, cover letter template 3: letter to a recruiter on linkedin, cover letter template 4: ‘cold contact’ prospecting letter to a hiring manager.

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Stand out and get hired faster with our collection of free professional cover letter templates expertly-designed to land you the perfect position.

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General cover letter templates.

A general cover letter template can help you stand out from the crowd and get you noticed faster. All of our cover letter samples, including our general cover letter template provided below, can be adjusted to suit a wide range of jobs and industries. No matter what type of job you’re applying for, we’ve got something for everyone. 

Be sure to enhance your cover letter template by incorporating specific examples from your professional and educational background. Remember, each cover letter represents an opportunity to showcase to the employer why you are the perfect fit for the role, so make the most of it!

Get noticed and hired faster by using this Sales Assistant cover letter example. This cover letter has been especially designed for Sales Assistant roles in 2024. We make it easy to make effortlessly stunning cover letters quicky and efficiently.

What makes our cover letter templates stand out?

At cvapp.nz, we understand the transformative impact a good job can have on your life. That's why we've created compelling cover letter templates designed to captivate and leave a lasting impression on employers.

Here's just a few reasons why our cover letter templates can help elevate your professional potential:

• Expert Approved Designs: Our team of skilled graphic designers are constantly developing and updating our cover letter templates to ensure they align with industry expectations. With a variety of template styles ranging from simple and modern to professional and creative , we’re proud to offer ideal cover letter templates for every individual.
• HR-Endorsed Templates: We collaborate with experienced HR and recruitment professionals to ensure our cover letter templates align with the criteria set by today's employers. By staying informed on the latest recruitment practices, our templates can keep you one step ahead of the competition.
• Easy Customisation: In addition to our professionally designed free cover letter templates, we provide a user-friendly cover letter builder to help job-seekers tailor their application letters with ease. With convenient features and helpful advice, our cover letter builder simplifies the process of crafting an exceptional cover letter.
• AI-Powered Technology: Even the most skilled writers need some support now and then; that's why we've integrated AI-generated content into our cover letter builder. Our AI tools allow for easy customisation, and with an advanced spelling and grammar checker, our builder can help identify and improve any potentially costly mistakes in your cover letter.

Most jobs will specify whether they require your cover letter in PDF or Word Docx format. In our online cover letter builder, We make it easy to edit your cover letter and download your template in either format. Check it out for yourself!

How to choose the right cover letter template:

Since each applicant and job role is unique, a standardised cover letter can hinder your chances of being noticed by employers. That's why we've created an extensive range of cover letter templates to help you create a job-winning cover letter. Say bye-bye to boring templates!

Our cover letter builder allows for effortless transitions between templates. That's right: You can quickly customise your cover letter and tailor it to your own individual preferences with ease. Our collection of free cover letter templates is divided into four distinct categories:

• Creative: For industries or job titles that demand a dynamic presentation, check out our creative cover letter templates . With vivid colour palettes, fun fonts and dazzling designs, a creative cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd. We recommend using a creative cover letter if you're applying for roles in industries such as film, television, design , photography, art, architecture and content creation.
• Modern: For applicants applying to industries that thrive on fresh thinking and progressive ideas, our modern cover letter templates may be the best option for you. Our modern cover letter layouts show off sleek lines, crisp fonts, and a balanced blend of both white space and text blocks. These templates are best for professionals in the IT, marketing , administration , and sales industries.
• Professional: There are times when it's important to stick to more conventional template designs, and that's where our professional templates shine. These templates offer classic designs with traditional fonts and well-organised sections. Opting for a professional cover letter template is best for applicants applying to industries such as business, healthcare, education , engineering , accounting , and finance.
• Simple : Last but not least, our simple cover letters are a timeless and traditional option for a diverse range of job positions and candidates. Ideal for students, individuals new to the workforce, and those in industries like hospitality, transportation, logistics, and retail , these simple templates are incredibly versatile and provide an excellent starting point for crafting any cover letter.

How do I create a great cover letter? 

A great cover letter requires highlighting why you’re the ideal candidate for the role by outlining your professional expertise and strengths. To do this, you’ll need the following sections:

A well-designed header: To stand out from the crowd, you'll need an attractive header to display your name and contact information. Your header is usually positioned at the top or along the side of the page. Here, you'll want to include essential contact information such as a phone number, email address, and any links to relevant professional websites.

An attractive and appropriate colour scheme: While it may not be appropriate for all industries, incorporating a pop of colour or fresh formatting can enhance the visual appeal of your cover letter. At cvapp.nz, we offer a range of alluring cover letter designs and attractive colour schemes that can help bring your cover letter to life. 

A suitable font choice : Effective cover letters employ font styles and sizes that are well-structured and appropriate for the industry or job role you're applying for. We simplify the cover letter creation process in our online builder by automatically choosing the correct font and size for your cover letter template.

Balanced white space to text ratio: A great cover letter should have a balanced ratio of text to white space to prevent visual strain on the reader. Fortunately, all of our cover letter templates are formatted by industry experts. Check it out for yourself! 

Diverse roles may call for different cover letter formats , which is why we've simplified the process of adjusting colours, line spacing, or entire templates in our cover letter builder.

Cover Letter Structure: 

Before you get started, it’s important to know how a cover letter is structured. You’ll need to include the following sections: 

• A tailored greeting: The way potential employers are addressed at the start of the cover letter. For example, “ Dear Mr. Rapana ,” or “ Tēnā koe, Mrs. Roberts.”  
• An interesting introduction: The initial opening sentences after your greeting introduce who you are and the position you’re applying for.   
• Captivating body paragraphs: The main paragraphs of your cover letter where you elaborate upon your professional experience, skills, and why you’re the best candidate for the job. Don’t forget to use strong examples, facts and figures where possible.   
• An appropriate conclusion and sign-off: The final sentences include a strong call-to-action statement motivating employers to reach out at a later stage, as well as an appropriate farewell statement. For example, “Ngā mihi, Melanie Harawera,” or “Yours sincerely, Jack Williams.” 

Cover Letter FAQs:

How should i format my cover letter .

An effective cover letter format grabs the interest of employers with an appealing design layout and an appropriate font. Additionally, your cover letter should also provide clear and concise details about your professional background, skills and qualifications. There are a range of different formats you can use, but the best format for you largely depends on your professional background. 

How long should my cover letter be? 

A well-crafted cover letter should fall within the range of 250-350 words . This is usually around three paragraphs long. If your cover letter is too short, you run the risk of employers questioning whether you're experienced enough or suitable for the job role. If your cover letter is too long, you may lose the reader's interest. Keeping it within this range will safeguard you from these risks. 

Is there anything I should always include in a cover letter? 

It's essential to always include the name of the company you're applying to and the job position you're interested in for each cover letter you draft. As potential employers may be evaluating candidates for multiple positions concurrently, specifying this information can quickly help employers determine if your cover letter should be considered and taken seriously.

• Include an attractive and industry-appropriate header
• Use data and specific examples to help support your claims
• Keep your white space-to-text ratio balanced
• Adjust the margins to fit more text in or to make your cover letter appear longer
• Include unnecessary details
• Incorporate overly flashy colours or design elements

Do I have to include a cover letter? 

While not every hiring manager reviews cover letters, those who do often use them to determine the shortlist for interviews. 

Imagine losing out on your dream job just because you didn't have a cover letter! For this reason, we recommend submitting a cover letter for each new job opportunity. Fortunately, all of our cover letter templates come with 

How do I end a cover letter? 

We recommend incorporating a call-to-action statement at the conclusion of your cover letter. For example: "If possible, I'd love to meet with you at your earliest convenience." This concluding statement showcases your enthusiasm for the role and subtly suggests that the hiring manager reach out to you for an interview. 

The final lines of your cover letter should end with an appropriate farewell, such as “Yours sincerely,” or “Ngā mihi, ” followed by your full name. 

How do I address a cover letter if I don’t know the name of the recipient? 

While addressing the hiring manager by name in your cover letter is best to help forge a personal connection with the recipient, some companies may not disclose the identity of the individual reviewing your application. 

In these situations, a more general greeting such as "Dear (Company Name) Hiring Team" or "Dear (Department Name) Team Lead" is best. 

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How to write a cover letter for your first job in New Zealand (with templates)

Writing a great cover letter for your first job can be tough. But these tips will get you on the right track.

What you’ll learn:

• What are cover letters? 
• The importance of cover letters 
• Tips for creating your first cover letter 

So, you’re wondering how to write a cover letter for your first job. 

Good on you. 

In New Zealand, these documents aren’t optional extras on top of a CV – they’re a vital part of showing you’re the right person for the job. By submitting one, you’re putting yourself on the front foot, which is what successful job hunting is all about. 

However, first cover letters aren’t easy – especially if you lack experience. To help, we’ve created this step-by-step guide on what to include, where and why. Let’s get cracking. We’ve also got a sample cover letter you can download and use for yourself when applying for jobs.

Writing an entry level cover letter doesn't have to be stressful.

What are cover letters?

A cover letter is a document you submit along with your CV when you apply for a job. In New Zealand, cover letters should be no longer than one page, and should aim to highlight your interest in the job, as well as why you’re the right person in terms of your previous skills and experience.

Why are cover letters important?

You might be asking yourself, ‘why do I need to submit a cover letter as well as a CV?”. Well, the two documents should complement each other, and neither is effective in isolation as they are together. 

On a CV, you should present your key skills and experience in short snappy bullet points that are easy for the reader to digest. A cover letter provides you the space to expand upon your CV, and the first opportunity for the hiring manager to get a handle on who you are and what you’re about. For this reason, you need to make sure that your cover letter underlines your most attractive skills and experiences so that there’s no way the reader will miss them. 

In addition, unlike a CV, which should be entirely focussed on you, a cover letter needs to explain why you’re interested in the job, and the company advertising it. Importantly, employers don’t just want to hear how skilled you are, they also want to know that you’re looking for more than just a salary. In other words, you need to explain why this role/organisation speaks to you, and why you want to work there, as opposed to simply anyone who will offer you a job. 

What’s more, a cover letter in itself shows interest. Anyone can keep the same CV on file and throw it in to any employer who’s advertising a job. However, a cover letter is more personal, and employers know they take longer to write. Therefore, if you only submit a CV, and someone submits a CV and a cover letter, guess who looks more interested from the employer’s perspective?

Tips for creating your first cover letter

1. your details.

You’ll probably submit your cover letter online, but still format it like a real letter. This means starting with:

• Your full name, contact details and home address
• The date you submit the application
• The business’ postal address

Start your cover letter like this.

Top tip : Don’t put this info into a document’s header. Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to initially scan cover letters for important details, and sometimes this software can’t read headers.

2. Introduce yourself

You should address the cover letter to a real person. This is an important personal touch that can help you stand out, and the hiring manager’s or recruiter’s name is usually given in the job listing.

If there’s no name given, check the company’s staff page and find someone (like a department head) to address it to. Even if this isn’t bang on, it shows you made the effort.

As a last resort, ‘Dear Hiring Manager’, will do the trick.

Now, there are several ways you can start your cover letter . The style you choose will largely depend on your personality, and the role you’re going for – e.g. an application for a graphic design role can probably be more creative than one for a dentist’s assistant. However, any good intro will include:

• The job title – Note: make sure you capitalise it
• Where you saw it
• A snappy one liner describing yourself
• A teaser of what you would bring to the role to get them interested

Example 1 :

“Dear Kohia Smith,

I’m writing to apply for the reporter role you’re currently listing on Trade Me Jobs. I’m a recent communications graduate with an interest in community news and digital-first reporting. I’d love to join your team and find stories that will engage and grow your readership.”

Example 2 :

“Dear Richard Hall,

I’m really excited about the Labourer position you’re currently listing on Trade Me Jobs. I’m a hard-working and highly motivated high-school graduate, keen to begin a trades career. I’d love the opportunity to join your team and develop my skills.”

Personalise your cover letter by addressing it to a real person.

3. Your skills, qualifications and attributes

Don’t worry, you can write this section of your cover letter with no experience in the field you’re applying for.

Here, you can include:

• Uni or highschool qualifications
• Volunteer experience, unpaid internships, temporary summer jobs
• Personal qualities that make you a great fit for the role

Whatever you go with, make sure to:

• Be specific
• Tie it back to the role’s requirements

“My BA in Communications Studies gave me a firm grounding in media ethics and law, and also taught me how to find, research and publish stories across platforms ranging from print to social.

I built on this with work experience at NEWSPAPER NAME last summer. As well as shadowing their reporters, I sat in on production meetings to learn how the editors decided which stories to pursue, and what formats they thought were most appropriate”.

“Holiday work in my local Four Square means I’m used to completing long shifts, remaining professional and proactive throughout. This job also emphasised communication, teamwork and problem-solving to make sure the store always met customer expectations.

I’m also physically fit, as I train with my rugby team twice a week and play a match every weekend. On top of this, I have a full, clean driver’s licence and my own transport”.

If you’re struggling to decide what skills or qualifications are most relevant to the position, a good first step is creating a Trade Me Job Profile . This tool can create a template CV based on your experiences and qualifications, which you can use as inspo for your cover letter. What’s more, Trade Me Job Profiles allow employers to approach you with opportunities you haven’t found.

Here are some tips on what Kiwi bosses want from new employees.

4. Why you’re a great fit

By now, the reader knows what you bring to the table, so it’s time to seal the deal.

You can approach this section by:

• Showing passion for their business or industry: only do this if you can make it genuine. Hint: saying you’ve always dreamt of working for a local cafe is a tad unbelievable (even if it’s true).
• Showing your eagerness to learn: this is great for entry level cover letters. Attitude goes a long way, and employers love enthusiasm and ambition.
• Talk about your values: companies today are very values driven. Showing your personal principles align with theirs suggests you’ll be a good fit.

“I now want to take my skills and experience into a fast-paced, 21st century news environment. As a longtime reader of NEWSPAPER NAME, I admire your commitment to balanced storytelling, and the way you’ve adapted to the digitalisation of news reporting,”

“The role appeals to me because I see lots of opportunities to gain new technical skills, due to the wide variety of commercial and residential projects the company takes on. I’m also keen to develop my interpersonal skills, as this is crucial to my long term ambition of managing a team of labourers in the future.”

5. End with a call to action

What do you want from your application? A job interview .

This final section is where you confidently (but politely) prompt the reader to get in touch and set up the next step.

“I believe I have the skills and experience needed to hit the ground running in this role, and I would be thrilled to join your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Rebecca Clarke.”

“I believe my past experience, attitude, and willingness to learn would make me a great fit for this role, and I would be thrilled to join your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Bradley Brown.”

And voila, one cover letter.

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A good cover letter intro is like a good espresso – short, sharp and energising. Here’s how to brew one of your own.

Along with your CV, a cover letter is essential to any NZ job application. Let's get you started.

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The perfect cover letter for the New Zealand market

Covering letters are a unique selling tool when approaching a prospective employer directly, and are vitally important to applications sent by overseas candidates. This is your chance to capture the attention of a New Zealand employer and demonstrate the qualities that set you apart from the other applicants.

KEEP IT BRIEF

Your cover letter should ideally not exceed one A4 side, with well-spaced lines.

TAILOR EACH COVER LETTER TOWARDS THE JOB LISTING

Wherever possible, account point-by-point for each of the requirements listed by the employers and detail how you are qualified to meet these requirements.

BE CLEAR AND CONCISE

Use strong, active verbs that demonstrate actions and accomplishments, for example, ‘organise’ and ‘supervise.’

FIND OUT THE DETAILS OF THE CONTACT PERSON

Do a bit of research, and, if a name is not supplied try to find out who the application is going to. Do not forget to include your own contact details, though these should be on your CV regardless.

THINK ABOUT THE STRUCTURE

Your letter should include an introduction and identification of the position (for example, the reference number used in the job advert), relevant qualifications and your current position, and a summary of how you meet their core skill set.

ADDRESS THE EMPLOYER’S ESSENTIAL CRITERIA/CORE SKILLSET

Identify your skills, experience and attributes that match the employer’s criteria. It can sometimes be helpful to use the same headings that they have supplied, with a short sentence or two addressing each one. Look for keywords that reveal what attributes they are looking for, and show how you embody them. If you can demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria, you will greatly increase your chances of an interview.

PROOFREAD YOUR LETTER PROPERLY

Again, this should go without saying. Have a trusted friend or colleague to review both your CV and cover letter, prior to applying. It is vital that there are no errors if you want to be taken seriously.

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How to write a job application form employers will want to read.

What's on this page?

Write an application form employers will want to read, types of online job applications, find the documents you'll need, fill in the job application form and check it, find out more.

Many people rush writing job application forms or leave them until the last minute. Allow yourself enough time to get together the information you'll need, fill in the form and check it. 

Most application forms ask your reasons for applying and what you can bring to the job, so use this opportunity to promote yourself. Highlight your experience, including training, projects and work responsibilities that show your abilities.

To apply online for a job you might have to:

• email your cover letter and CV
• download an application form, fill it out, and then upload it to a website
• fill in an online application form
• register with a website using social media such as Facebook or LinkedIn
• create an online account with a job board or company and sign up for notifications for suitable vacancies.

Get everything together that you might need to fill out an application form, including:

• a CV tailored to the job and saved as a Word document – using your name, application date and job title as the file name, for example, Alex Smith-30 November 2018-carpenter
• details of your qualifications
• dates of current and previous jobs and employer's names
• a cover letter.

You may be asked to supply your LinkedIn profile, so make sure it matches your CV. 

If you have other social media accounts, either make them private or clean up anything you've shared that might damage your future job chances.

When you have everything ready, go to the employer's website. You may need to register and log in. 

• Read the application form and instructions carefully. If you don’t follow all the instructions, the employer may reject your application.
• If possible, download a copy of the form and practise filling it out.
• Fill in the application form. Follow all the instructions and answer all the questions. You can write 'Not applicable' if necessary, for example, if they ask about previous jobs and you haven't had any.
• Have a document open on your computer and copy and paste  everything you’re filling in online as you go. Save this document when you've finished, so you have a record of what you've written. You can also use the spelling and grammar checks to make sure the text is correct. 
• Check your answers. If possible, ask someone to proofread your application form.
• Submit the application.
• How to write a CV 

Updated 29 Oct 2020

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