Canadian with Marmite Dreams

Hi,
I have been reading throughout various sites, and getting no where fast on how a Canadian could possibly get to New Zealand to work, play and just generally enjoy life away from mountains of snow outside one's front door.
I have a partner in New Zealand and I know partner sponsorship visas are available, or if you're a skilled worker you could migrate that way.
However what I'm hoping to find out is - what would be available for a non skilled schmuck like me who wants to get to NZ of my own accord and not have to rely on a visa through sponsorship by my partner.
I've read too many horror stories about people breaking up and having to return to their native country ect and I'd like to be prepared for everything that I possibly can.
Are there companies offering Temporary Work Visas/Permits that would be interested in Canadians? I work mainly in the tourist industry and have worked as a cashier/sales associate and from what I've seen that hasn't met the skilled migrant worker expectations.
But basically where do I look or get solid step by step info to get over to N.Z?

You can go on a working holiday visa. It will allow you to live and work in the country for 12 months. Info on the NZ immigration website.