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 New Zealand professional practice. Including a photo can: cause your CV to fail ATS parsing (most ATS systems cannot process image files correctly and will discard or scramble content near an image), introduce unconscious bias into the screening process, and signal to NZ employers that you are unfamiliar with NZ CV conventions.

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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