It really depends on the kind of position you have but its possible yes.
a friend of mine got a residence visa through working as a restaurant manager in auckland . From what she told me if you have some sort of degree in hospitality or a lot of work experience its possible but mostly for managing positions or being a chef.
For bar staff or waiting staff its nearly impossible because there are a lot of Kiwis that can do the job like students or also working holiday makers that come and go so its not worth it for the sponsor.
good luck