CV and cover letter templates

Each CV template is in Word format, so you can save it to your computer and update it later. We recommend you use an up-to-date version of Microsoft Word and a desktop or laptop computer.

Please note you cannot save these resume templates to your Careers New Zealand account. You must download them to your computer and work on them there. 

If you want to create your CV online, use our online CV generator – CV Builder. If you are using a mobile device we recommend you use CV Builder. 

• CV Builder – create your own CV online

The CV style you use depends on the job you are applying for and your circumstances. You can choose to emphasise either your work history (work-focused CV) or your skills (skills-focused CV).

This website considers these two CV styles, although you can use a combination of the two or other approaches.

The skills-focused CV emphasises your skills by having a well-developed section on skills at the front of your CV. The work history information in your CV can be kept to a minimum.

If you have no work experience, you can leave the work history section out altogether, but make sure you give evidence of how your skills were developed.

Use a skills-focused CV if:

• you want to place emphasis on your skills over your work history
• you are applying for your first job or only have limited employment history
• you are re-entering the job market after a long absence.

• Figure out what skills you have
• Skills gained outside the workforce
• Skills employers are looking for

Example

• Skills-focused CV - Example (Word - 17KB)

Template

• Skills-focused CV - Template (Word - 15KB)

A work-focused CV puts emphasis on your work history by having it at the front of your CV. If you choose a work-focused CV, you may decide to keep the information you include in the skills section to a minimum.

Use a work-focused CV if:

• you want to emphasise your work history over your skills
• you want to emphasise your career progression.

Don't use one if:

• you are entering the job market for the first time
• you are entering the job market after a long absence.

Example

• Work-focused CV - Example (Word - 16KB)

Template

• Work-focused CV - Template (Word - 15KB)

You would generally include a cover letter as part of a job application.

A cover letter should be job specific, so tailor your cover letter for each job you apply for.

The cover letter example and template provided here are in a basic format that will meet the requirements of most jobs. However, some professional or specialist roles may require more detail.

Example

• Cover Letter - Example (Word - 15KB)

Template

• Cover Letter - Template (Word - 14KB)