How New Zealand is attacking its driver shortage

Updated Oct 2, 2017

The U.S. is not the only country struggling to find all the truck drivers it needs.

Trucking in New ZealandTrucking in New Zealand

New Zealand is so desperate for drivers that it is undertaking a recruiting effort abroad. An employment service looks to recruit 1,000 Irish truckers with solid salaries and a lucrative relocation package that includes waiving processing costs for successful applicants and their families.

Matt Jones, managing director of Canstaff, told the Irish Sun newspaper:

Despite Government initiatives to attract more heavy vehicle drivers, the shortage has been ongoing and a more immediate solution is needed to keep New Zealand’s wheels of commerce turning.

The incentive here for overseas drivers is not only the relaxed Kiwi lifestyle, we can also offer top dollar wages and guaranteed shifts with more available if required.

Salaries have increased 20 per cent in recent efforts to attract more people into the industry and we are confident that our relocation package surpasses any other currently on offer.

Applicants need two years of experience, the appropriate license and be eligible for a visa.

In another media interview, Jones said New Zealand has the same problem many U.S. fleets complain about: Millennials uninterested in the industry.