The new Immigration Act of New Zealand, which was enforced in 2009 replacing the 1987 Act, aims to empower the homeland security and make the immigration services efficient and foolproof. The visa preferences have also gradually changed from the race based to ethnic representation. The Work Visa is the easiest way to gain entry into the involved country. The work visa is available as Temporary and as Live and work in New Zealand permanently.

Temporary or general work visa does not lead to the Permanent Residency. This visa is granted for 3 years. To avail this visa, you must have a valid passport with a validity of at least 3 months beyond the expiry of Visa. General Visa is a suitable option for the people entering the country for specific objectives.
This Visa is also for those with a job offer in New Zealand from a local employer or if their skill falls under the occupation in short-term demand category. This is also appropriate for people opting to join their partners in the nation and work. The students who want to work while studying to enhance their skills and experience after completion of studies in the New Zealand also need to apply for this Visa.

Living and working permanently under the Work Visa New Zealand is aimed at providing the market with Skilled Migrants for certain occupations that are in shortage in domestic labor market. Skilled migrants should file according to their skills and experience. The application is evaluated under the points system, based on the parameters of age, qualification and experience. You score extra points if you have relevant experience in skills mentioned in Long Term Skill Shortage List (LTSSL). Having job offers from local employers and relatives is also point scoring.Work to Residence Visa is a multiple entry visa and is valid for 30 months. Under this Work Visa you can apply for Permanent Residency after two years of work in the country. You can file for PR if you:

Have a  sponsorship from a qualified and recognized  employer in New Zealand,

Have a Job that is on the Long Term Skill Shortage List.

Are a person of outstanding skills in field of art, sports, etc

If you have been working in the country for at least two years after being granted a Work Visa under the Work to Residence Category of New Zealand work Permit classification, you can file for permanent residence under the Residence from Work Category.