Visa NZ Hospitality Scholarship: Applications Open
Are you ready to grow your hospitality career and bring fresh ideas home to Aotearoa? The Visa New Zealand Hospitality Scholarship is back for 2025. We’d love to see applications from talented hospo professionals from every part of New Zealand, from Northland to Bluff.
Supported by Visa Wellington On a Plate, this scholarship is designed to inspire and support emerging talent who want to build a long-term career in hospitality. Whether you work in the kitchen, behind the bar, on the floor, or you’re on the path to management, this is your chance to take your skills and passion further.
Why apply?
The scholarship is valued at NZD $30,000, with a prize package tailored to your goals and career path. If you’re selected, you’ll receive:
A five-day work placement (stage) at an overseas restaurant or hospitality venue. The team at Visa WOAP will work with you and your mentor to plan and secure your placement. Flights and accommodation are included.
Attendance at a leading industry event or professional development programme, either in New Zealand or overseas.
A year-long mentorship to help you set goals and grow.
Personal brand development coaching with a social media specialist.
Access to a well-being support package.
The opportunity to run an event in Visa Wellington On a Plate 2026, with flights and accommodation included.
Plus, the two runners-up each receive a $3,000 travel voucher.
Previous winners have used the scholarship to learn from some of the best in the world. Joshua Ross, our 2023 winner, gained invaluable experience at Saint Peter in Sydney and Moor Hall in the UK. Carolina Front, the 2024 recipient, is working with a mentor to explore opportunities in sustainable practices, winemaking and distilling.
Who should apply?
We’re looking for people from all across the motu with a clear commitment to the industry, fresh ideas and the drive to grow.
To be eligible, you must:
Be a New Zealand resident with the right to work here
Be aged between 22 and 35 at the time of your application
Have at least two years’ relevant hospitality experience
Be currently working in hospitality — in any role
Be able to apply yourself or be nominated by a manager or colleague
Applications are open from Tuesday 29 July to Monday 25 August (inclusive).
Apply Now
If you’ve got big ideas, passion and the commitment to keep growing, apply now and bring your story to the table.
To apply for the scholarship:
Complete the application form.
Send us a cover letter or video telling us about yourself, your experience and your career aspirations.
Read and sign the Terms and Conditions document.
