More than 1700 people have applied for 100 jobs at Rotorua's Kmart.
Kmart management has described the response to the vacancies as "incredible".
The fight for the jobs could get even tougher with applications for the roles open until this Friday.
More than 1700 people want to work at Kmart in Rotorua. Photo / Stephen Parker
The applications come as new figures show the numberof those out of work in Rotorua has risen in the past year and is now well above the national average.
Kmart is advertising for up to 100 fulltime, part-time and casual positions for the Rotorua store being built at Trade Central.
The much-anticipated Australian-owned retail outlet will open in April.
Kmart opens in Rotorua in April. Photo / Stephen Parker
Kmart New Zealand country manager Jason Picard said the company was looking forward to opening in Rotorua.
"The team has received an incredible response to the available employment positions and we encourage those interested to keep their eyes on our website or once the store opens speak with the Kmart Rotorua store manager for future employment opportunities."
Kmart Rotorua will open from 8am until midnight seven days a week.
"For those that have applied for roles with us, the next stage is all applications will be screened. Successful candidates will be notified and invited to attend interviews in January. Unsuccessful candidates will also be notified of the outcome," Picard said.
The Infometrics quarterly economic monitor ending September this year shows the unemployment rate in Rotorua is 6.7 per cent, compared with 6.1 per cent at the same time last year.
The national unemployment rate is 4.9 per cent and Bay of Plenty's unemployment rate is 5.8 per cent.
Figures on Statistics New Zealand's website show the number of people in Rotorua on the Jobseeker Support benefit is 3654.
Ministry of Social Development regional commissioner Mike Bryant said the ministry was committed to helping people move off benefits and into work.
He said that last month alone 200 Rotorua clients cancelled their benefits because they went into work.
"We have been working with both Kmart and clients, because promoting local job vacancies to our clients is an important part of our work. We are always open to work with any employer, including Kmart, who may have unfilled vacancies."
He said two seminars had been held at the Rotorua office to give clients an overview of the opportunities and information on how to apply for the Kmart jobs.
"All but 10 of the 47 clients who attended the seminars have applied for work with Kmart as well as receiving information about the organisation and coaching in interview skills. Liaison between our work broker and Kmart is ongoing."
Bryant said the Christmas period in Rotorua often provided additional opportunities in hospitality and retail work.
"We offer a range of courses and industry partnerships to prepare clients for such opportunities.
"When people are on benefit for a long period of time it can be difficult for them to find employment. We encourage them to remain positive and continue with their job search."
Kmart is part of a $20 million retail development at Trade Central that will see at least a further 40 jobs created as other retail stores and food outlets open.
Among the other stores at the site are St Pierre's Sushi and Pita Pit. Bed Bath & Beyond will also open at the site, moving from its current location at Rotorua Central.
There will be parking at the site for 762 vehicles.
