Careers advice
Living wage VS minimum wage NZ: What you need to know
Know the difference between the legal minimum and the living wage to ensure you're paid fairly for your hard work.
Last updated: 17 April 2026
What is the minimum wage in NZ?
As of 1 April 2026, the adult minimum wage is $23.95 per hour.
The minimum wage is legally mandated, the living wage is optional.
Understanding the NZ living wage
For 2026, the living wage in New Zealand is $28.95 per hour.
The key differences at a glance
| Minimum wage (2026) | Living wage (2026) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate | Hourly rate | $23.95 | $23.95 | $28.95 | $28.95 |
| Weekly (40 hours) | Weekly (40 hours) | $958.00 (before tax) | $958.00 (before tax) | $1,158.00 (before tax) | $1,158.00 (before tax) |
| Is it the law? | Is it the law? | Yes | Yes | No (it's voluntary) | No (it's voluntary) |
| Who sets it? | Who sets it? | NZ Government | NZ Government | Living Wage Aotearoa NZ | Living Wage Aotearoa NZ |
| Annual update | Annual update | 1 April | 1 April | 1 September | 1 September |
Which employers are living wage accredited?
There are plenty of employers who choose to pay the living wage.
Why the gap matters for your career
Upskilling for higher-paying roles
Finding your path to better pay
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