New Zealand continues to be one of the world’s most appealing destinations for skilled migrants, students transitioning into the workforce, and professionals seeking a high quality of life. With its stable economy, strong labor laws, and growing demand across key industries, understanding salaries in New Zealand in 2026 is essential for anyone planning to work or relocate to the country.
This comprehensive guide breaks down New Zealand wages by profession, industry, region, and experience level—helping you make informed decisions about your career path in 2026.
Overview of Average Salaries in New Zealand in 2026
In 2026, the average annual salary in New Zealand is estimated at NZD 63,000–68,000, depending on location and industry performance. Wage growth remains steady, driven by labor shortages, higher living costs, and ongoing economic expansion in technology, construction, healthcare, and trade sectors.
- Median hourly wage: approx. NZD 30
- Minimum wage (2026): approx. NZD 23–24 per hour
- Highest-paying sectors: Technology, engineering, finance, healthcare
- Fast-growing job categories: IT security, software development, nursing, renewable energy, construction trades
Salaries in New Zealand 2026 by Industry
1. Technology & IT
The tech sector remains one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing industries, attracting both local talent and international workers.
| Job Role | Average Salary (NZD/year) |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | 85,000–110,000 |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | 95,000–125,000 |
| IT Project Manager | 110,000–140,000 |
| Data Analyst | 75,000–105,000 |
Demand continues to rise due to digital transformation across government and private sectors.
2. Healthcare & Medical
Healthcare salaries remain strong thanks to nationwide shortages of qualified professionals.
| Job Role | Average Salary (NZD/year) |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 75,000–95,000 |
| General Practitioner (GP) | 160,000–220,000 |
| Dentist | 130,000–180,000 |
| Physiotherapist | 70,000–90,000 |
Healthcare workers also benefit from migration-friendly policies and stable career progression.
3. Engineering & Construction
New Zealand’s major infrastructure projects are fueling steady demand for engineers and skilled trades.
| Job Role | Average Salary (NZD/year) |
|---|---|
| Civil Engineer | 85,000–120,000 |
| Mechanical Engineer | 80,000–115,000 |
| Electrician | 65,000–95,000 |
| Construction Manager | 110,000–150,000 |
Renewable energy and housing development projects are driving many of these roles.
4. Finance & Business
Salaries in banking, accounting, and business management continue to remain competitive.
| Job Role | Average Salary (NZD/year) |
|---|---|
| Accountant | 65,000–95,000 |
| Financial Analyst | 80,000–115,000 |
| HR Manager | 90,000–130,000 |
| Marketing Manager | 85,000–125,000 |
Auckland and Wellington offer significantly higher pay than other regions.
5. Education
Salaries in education vary depending on qualifications and experience.
| Job Role | Average Salary (NZD/year) |
|---|---|
| Primary School Teacher | 58,000–78,000 |
| Secondary Teacher | 65,000–90,000 |
| University Lecturer | 90,000–130,000 |
Demand is stable, and rural schools offer additional incentives for qualified teachers.
Salaries in New Zealand 2026 by Region
1. Auckland
- Average salary: NZD 70,000–75,000
2. Wellington
- Average salary: NZD 68,000–74,000
3. Christchurch (Canterbury)
- Average salary: NZD 60,000–67,000
4. Waikato
- Average salary: NZD 58,000–65,000
5. Otago
- Average salary: NZD 55,000–64,000
Salaries in New Zealand 2026 by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | 45,000–55,000 NZD |
| Mid-Level (3–7 years) | 60,000–85,000 NZD |
| Senior-Level (8+ years) | 90,000–150,000+ NZD |
Specialized roles in IT, engineering, and healthcare often exceed these ranges.
Skills in High Demand in 2026
Employers across New Zealand are particularly seeking workers with the following skills:
- Cloud computing (AWS, Azure)
- Cybersecurity
- Software development
- Nursing and aged-care expertise
- Construction project management
- Accounting and financial analysis
- HVAC, plumbing, and electrical trade skills
Workers with certifications and hands-on experience command significantly higher salaries.
Benefits and Work Culture in New Zealand
New Zealand’s labor market is known for its excellent working conditions and strong employee protections.
Typical benefits include:
- Paid annual leave (minimum 4 weeks)
- Paid public holidays
- Employer contributions to KiwiSaver
- Parental leave benefits
- Health and wellness support in many workplaces
The work-life balance is one of the country’s strongest attractions, contributing to competitive salary expectations in 2026.
Future Salary Trends in New Zealand (2026–2030)
Experts predict continued wage growth driven by:
- Increasing immigration demand for skilled workers
- Ongoing digital transformation
- Growth in renewable energy and infrastructure projects
- Aging population creating healthcare demand
Industries likely to see the highest salary increases include IT, construction, and medical services.
FAQ: Salaries in New Zealand 2026
1. What is the average salary in New Zealand in 2026?
The average salary ranges from NZD 63,000 to 68,000 per year, depending on region and profession.
2. Which jobs pay the highest salaries in New Zealand?
The highest-paying roles in 2026 include IT managers, doctors, dentists, senior engineers, and finance executives.
3. Are salaries higher in Auckland than in other regions?
Yes. Auckland offers the highest average salaries, though living costs are also higher.
4. Is New Zealand a good place for foreign workers?
Absolutely. New Zealand actively seeks skilled migrants, especially in healthcare, IT, and engineering.
5. What entry-level jobs pay well in New Zealand?
IT support, engineering graduates, skilled trades, and healthcare assistants offer competitive starting salaries.