Strong demand for stonemasons
Chances of getting work as a stonemason are good due to:
- growth in construction activity, which is expected to continue until at least 2023. This is mainly due to more homes being built
- demand for high-quality stonework for luxury homes, particularly in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and the Central North Island
- a shortage of stonemasonry apprentices.
Stonemason appears on Immigration New Zealand's construction and infrastructure skill shortage list. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled stonemasons from overseas to work in New Zealand.
However, like many construction jobs, this role can be affected by economic conditions. A downturn in the economy can lower demand for stonemasons.
According to the Census, 744 stonemasons worked in New Zealand in 2018.
Fewer openings for monumental masons
Monumental masons, who work on headstones and other memorials, are less in demand due to use of:
- overseas companies to create headstones, as this costs less
- computerised lettering rather than masonry techniques.
Most stonemason jobs not advertised
Stonemason jobs are not usually advertised. You can contact the New Zealand Stone Masons Association about possible jobs or apprenticeships.
Many stonemasons run their own businesses
One-third of stonemasons are self-employed, and 13% employ others. Most stonemasons work for small companies of between two and eight employees.
