The short answer: no. Do not include a photo on your New Zealand CV.

Why No Photo on a NZ CV

Photo-inclusive CVs are not standard in most New Zealand professional applications. A photo can introduce unconscious bias, use valuable page space and make some document layouts harder for recruitment systems to parse. Unless the role genuinely requires an image or the employer asks for one, leave it out.

When Is a Photo Acceptable?

The only situations where a photo is appropriate on a NZ CV or application: when the job advertisement specifically requests one (rare), or for roles where your appearance is directly relevant to the job (modelling, acting, presenting). These are the exceptions, not the rule.

LinkedIn Is Different

LinkedIn is the exception to the no-photo rule. A professional headshot on LinkedIn is standard and recommended — it increases profile engagement and makes your profile feel more approachable to recruiters. The no-photo rule applies only to your CV document, not your LinkedIn profile.

Rule of thumb: If the job ad says no photo, or says nothing about a photo, don't include one. In New Zealand, that covers almost every professional and trades role.

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