How to become a bartender in New Zealand

Why become a bartender?

Bartenders prepare and serve drinks in bars, restaurants and clubs.

If you love working around other people, then bartending could be a great career for you. Bartenders work in a range of hospitality venues, ranging from clubs for formal settings. They know the basics of drink mixology and some go on to master the craft of specialist cocktail making. Additionally, bartenders needs to have an understanding of the law.

Alternative job titles

Bar attendant
Bar staff

Getting Started

Understanding the best way to become a qualified bartender in New Zealand looks complicated but is easy. Here are the steps you need to take to start your career as a bartender.

Step 1

Choose and enrol with a registered training provider

Step 2

Complete in a level 3 certificate program

Step 3

Progress to level 4 certificate program and complete a Liquor Control Certification

Quick Facts

 

Average Pay

$40 - $55k per year

 

Length of training

35-40 weeks

 

Available Jobs

8*

*TradeMe Jobs, April 2022

Bartenders need to be

• Friendly and polite

• Mature and honest

• Adaptable

• Able to concentrate for long periods

• Able to work well under pressure

• Able to use initiative

• Able to follow instructions

• Good at maths.

Careers and Undustries (you will work in)

• Bars and pubs

• Restaurants

• Hotels and function centres

• Nightclubs or dance venues.