Table of Contents
Overview of the Minimum Wage in New Zealand for 2024
The minimum wage in New Zealand for 2024 is a legislated hourly rate that sets the legally required baseline employers must pay eligible workers. From 1 April 2024, the adult minimum wage increased to 23.15 per hour. This rate applies to most employees aged 16 years and over who are not classified as starting-out or trainees. The annual review of minimum wage settings aims to balance wage protection for workers with broader economic conditions, labour market constraints and cost-of-living pressures. Understanding the exact hourly, weekly and annual amounts is essential for employees, employers and anyone analysing NZ’s labour standards.
Core Minimum Wage Rates 2024
| Category | Rate (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Adult Minimum Wage 2024 | 23.15 per hour |
| Starting-Out Wage | 18.52 per hour |
| Training Wage | 18.52 per hour |
| Minimum Wage for Under 16 | No minimum wage applies |
Minimum Wage vs Living Wage in New Zealand (2024)
This chart compares the 2024 adult minimum wage with the starting-out / training wage and the 2024–2025 living wage.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Per Hour
The minimum hourly wage of 23.15 applies to the majority of workers aged 16 and over. This figure represents the minimum amount an employer must legally pay for each hour worked. Unlike salaried arrangements, hourly minimum wage obligations are clear and enforceable regardless of total hours worked in a week. The increase from the previous rate reflects a cautious adjustment based on national economic indicators. Workers receiving the adult minimum wage should ensure that any deductions or additional allowances do not reduce hourly pay below the required threshold.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Before Tax
Before tax, the minimum wage remains a straightforward calculation: 23.15 earned for each hour worked. This is the gross amount an employee earns prior to PAYE tax, ACC levies, student loan deductions or KiwiSaver contributions. The before-tax figure is important as it forms the baseline from which all other calculations are made, including weekly and annual earnings. Employers must base compliance on the gross rate, ensuring no employment arrangement results in effective pay below this legally mandated minimum.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 After Tax
The minimum wage after tax varies depending on an employee’s tax code and personal deductions. While the 23.15 per hour rate is legislated before tax, net earnings differ once PAYE and other obligations are deducted. Take-home pay may also shift depending on whether an employee uses secondary tax codes, pays student loan contributions or contributes to KiwiSaver. Although the law does not define after-tax minimum wage figures, workers paid the minimum wage should understand that tax obligations will significantly impact net income, especially for full-time employees.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Per Week
A full-time minimum wage worker employed for 40 hours per week would earn 926.00 before tax. This figure is calculated by multiplying the hourly minimum wage of 23.15 by a standard 40-hour week. Weekly earnings may vary for workers with irregular schedules, part-time hours or rostered shifts. Employers must ensure that any weekly payment structure does not result in effective hourly rates falling below the statutory minimum. Workers assessing their weekly income should consider deductions which reduce take-home pay.
Summary Table: Minimum Wage Weekly Earnings 2024
| Hours Worked | Weekly Pay (NZD, Before Tax) |
|---|---|
| 20 hours | 463.00 |
| 30 hours | 694.50 |
| 40 hours (full time) | 926.00 |
| 50 hours | 1,157.50 |
Minimum Wage Weekly Earnings in 2024 (Adult Rate)
Estimated weekly income before tax for different working hours at the 2024 adult minimum wage of $23.15 per hour.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Per Year
Annual minimum wage income can be estimated by multiplying weekly earnings by 52 weeks. A full-time worker on the adult minimum wage earning 926.00 per week would have an estimated annual salary of 48,152 before tax. This calculation assumes consistent full-time hours and does not account for unpaid leave, holiday patterns or periods of reduced hours. Although annualised amounts help workers evaluate long-term financial planning, employers are still required to ensure hourly compensation never falls below the minimum rate.
Summary Table: Minimum Wage Annual Income Estimates
| Weekly Hours | Annual Earnings (NZD, Before Tax) |
|---|---|
| 20 hours | 24,076 |
| 30 hours | 36,114 |
| 40 hours | 48,152 |
| 50 hours | 60,190 |
Annual Income on the 2024 Minimum Wage
Estimated annual income (before tax) based on different weekly hours at the 2024 adult minimum wage.
Youth, Training, Living Wage, Work Visa Requirements
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Youth Rates
Youth wage rules in New Zealand distinguish younger employees based on age, experience and employment classification. The adult minimum wage of 23.15 applies to most employees aged 16 or over, except those who fall under the starting-out or training wage categories. Youth rates are set at 80% of the adult minimum, resulting in a starting-out and training wage of 18.52 per hour. These classifications are used to support younger workers entering the labour market and those in formal training. Employers must ensure correct categorisation to avoid underpayment.
Summary Table: Youth Wage Structure 2024
| Category | Rate (NZD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Minimum Wage | 23.15 | Applies to most workers 16+ |
| Starting-Out Wage | 18.52 | Applies to many 16–19 year-olds |
| Training Wage | 18.52 | Applies when completing recognised training |
| Under 16 | No minimum wage | Employers must still follow employment law |
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 for 16, 17 and 18-Year-Olds
Workers aged 16–17 may earn either the adult minimum wage or the starting-out wage depending on criteria such as time with the employer and completion of training or schooling. A worker aged 18 who has surpassed starting-out conditions must be paid the adult minimum wage. Because the classifications depend on employment history rather than age alone, many 16–17-year-olds also qualify for the adult rate once they meet the criteria. This structure ensures fairness while still recognising early employment learning phases.
Summary Table: Age-Specific Minimum Wage Guidelines
| Age | Possible Wage Rate | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | No set minimum | Employment laws apply, but no wage floor |
| 16 | 18.52 or 23.15 | Depends on starting-out status |
| 17 | 18.52 or 23.15 | Same criteria as age 16 |
| 18 | 18.52 or 23.15 | Starting-out rules may still apply |
| 19+ | 23.15 | Adult minimum wage unless training rate applies |
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Under 16
Employees under 16 years of age are not covered by New Zealand’s minimum wage laws. Although there is no minimum wage requirement for this age group, employers must comply with all other employment obligations including fair treatment, lawful hours, health and safety regulations and protection from exploitation. Pay rates for under-16 employees vary widely depending on industry, region and role. Parents and employers should ensure employment remains safe and suitable for young workers.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Training Wage
The training wage of 18.52 per hour applies to employees aged 20 or over who are completing at least 60 credits per year of recognised industry training. This lower wage band acknowledges the structured learning component of work-based training programmes. However, employers must ensure that once training requirements are fully completed or if applicable criteria no longer apply, the worker transitions to the adult minimum wage. Training wage compliance is monitored to prevent misuse.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 for Work Visa Holders
Work visa holders in New Zealand are legally entitled to the same minimum wage protections as citizens and residents. This means that from 1 April 2024, eligible migrant workers must be paid at least 23.15 per hour unless they fall under an approved classification such as the training wage. Some visa categories require employers to meet higher pay thresholds than the minimum wage to satisfy immigration conditions. Ensuring accurate pay rates is essential for both compliance and visa integrity.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Living Wage
The living wage is not legally enforced but represents an independently assessed hourly rate required to support a worker and their family with a basic yet decent standard of living. For 2024, the living wage increased to 27.80 per hour. This figure exceeds the statutory minimum wage and reflects broader considerations such as rent, food costs, transport and participation in the community. Employers who adopt the living wage voluntarily strengthen retention, job satisfaction and financial resilience among workers.
Summary Table: Minimum Wage vs Living Wage 2024
| Category | Hourly Rate (NZD) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Minimum Wage | 23.15 | Legally required |
| Starting-Out/Training Wage | 18.52 | Legally required for eligible workers |
| Living Wage 2024 | 27.80 | Voluntary benchmark |
How Different Hourly Rates Compare in New Zealand (2024)
This chart compares the 2024 starting-out / training rate, adult minimum wage, living wage, and common benchmark rates such as $27/hour, $30/hour and a $70,000 salary converted to an hourly equivalent.
Minimum Living Wage NZ 2024 Per Hour
The 2024 living wage of 27.80 per hour reflects updated assessments of basic household expenses. The calculation considers housing affordability, food costs, essential transport, healthcare and family needs across New Zealand. Because it is higher than the legal minimum, the living wage is often used by ethical employers, councils, NGOs and certified Living Wage Employers as a benchmark for fair remuneration. Workers earning the living wage typically experience greater financial stability than those on statutory minimum rates.
Monthly Search Variants (March, April, August, September, October, November, December 2024)
Search interest frequently spikes around dates associated with wage changes. New Zealand’s minimum wage consistently updates on 1 April each year, which explains increased search volume around early-year months. Although people search for “minimum wage NZ September 2024”, “October 2024” and other monthly variants, the minimum wage remains unchanged throughout the year. The 2024 rate stays fixed at 23.15 per hour until the next review period. Employers and workers should monitor official announcements ahead of each April review.
NZ Adult Minimum Wage Timeline for 2024
This chart shows how the adult minimum wage changed from $22.70 to $23.15 per hour in April 2024 and remained constant for the rest of the year.
Minimum Wage Increase 2024 NZ Hourly Rate
The 2024 increase raised the adult minimum wage by 45 cents per hour from the previous 22.70. This represents a 2% upward adjustment. The increase was considered measured, based on economic conditions including inflation, business operating pressures and employment market stability. Although incremental, the adjustment affects thousands of low-income workers and contributes to improving earnings stability at the lower end of the labour market.
Salary Conversions
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Salary
Converting the minimum wage to a salary structure helps workers understand overall earning potential. A full-time worker earning 23.15 per hour over a standard 40-hour week earns 926.00 per week before tax. Annualised, this totals approximately 48,152 over 52 weeks. Employers paying salaries must ensure that when salary is divided by actual hours worked, the effective hourly rate does not fall below the minimum wage. This requirement is particularly important for roles with variable or fluctuating hours.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Annual
The concept of the annual minimum wage refers to the total earnings a full-time worker would receive over one year at the legislated hourly rate. For 2024, this is approximately 48,152 before tax for someone consistently working 40 hours per week. Workers with irregular hours, unpaid leave or seasonal employment will have varying annual totals even while remaining entitled to the minimum hourly rate. Annual calculations are useful for budgeting and financial planning but do not affect hourly wage compliance requirements.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 After Tax Per Hour
While the legal minimum wage is expressed in pre-tax terms, many workers calculate their after-tax effective hourly rate to understand take-home pay. On 23.15 per hour, after-tax income depends on individual tax codes, ACC levies, student loan deductions and KiwiSaver contributions. Although there is no official government-published “minimum wage after tax” figure, workers can estimate their net rate using online calculators based on their circumstances. Understanding actual take-home pay is essential for assessing cost-of-living impacts and financial obligations.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Per Yearly Income
Yearly income based on the 2024 minimum wage aligns with the annualised figure of approximately 48,152 before tax. Workers should note that this calculation assumes full-time hours without interruption. Actual yearly earnings may vary due to holidays, unpaid leave, rostered hours, industry fluctuations or seasonal demand. Employers must ensure that each hour worked meets or exceeds 23.15, regardless of annual totals.
New Minimum Wage NZ 2024
The “new minimum wage” refers specifically to the adjustment taking effect on 1 April 2024, when the adult rate increased from 22.70 to 23.15. The new rate applies universally across all industries and regions unless workers fall under specific classifications such as training or starting-out wages. This updated rate will remain in force until the next annual review cycle, typically announced in the months preceding 1 April each year.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Increase Explanation
The 2024 increase was a measured adjustment in response to New Zealand’s broader economic environment. An increase of 2% sought to balance affordability for employers with protection for low-wage workers facing rising living costs. Policymakers review data such as inflation, productivity, labour demand, business performance and household financial stress when setting annual adjustments. The modest increase reflects an effort to support employment stability while still delivering incremental wage improvements.
Minimum Wage NZ 2024 Age Requirements
Eligibility for the adult minimum wage generally begins at age 16 unless the worker is classified under the starting-out or training categories. Age affects wage classification, but the determining factors often include employment history, training status and prior experience. Workers aged 18–19 may still be under the starting-out wage if they meet specific criteria. Those aged 20 or older may receive the training wage if they are in recognised industry training. Understanding age-linked requirements ensures correct payment.
Minimum Wage NZ April 2024
April is the most significant month for minimum wage changes in New Zealand. Every year, on 1 April, the government implements new wage settings following consultations and economic review. For 2024, the update increased the adult rate to 23.15 and set the starting-out and training rates at 18.52. Employers must update payroll systems each April to ensure compliance from the effective date. Workers should verify payslips in early April to confirm that updated rates are applied.
Minimum Wage NZ March 2024
March 2024 represents the final month of the previous minimum wage rate before the 1 April adjustment. During March, workers were still paid 22.70 per hour under the adult minimum wage. Searches for “minimum wage NZ March 2024” are common among employees verifying backpay, contract changes or historic earnings. The March figure is relevant for annual comparisons, tax year calculations and payroll auditing.
Minimum Wage NZ August, September, October, November, December 2024
Search queries referencing specific months often reflect workers checking whether any mid-year minimum wage changes occurred. In New Zealand, minimum wage rates remain constant throughout the year and only update on 1 April. Therefore, from August through December 2024, the minimum wage stays at 23.15 per hour. No mid-year adjustments were introduced for any month in 2024.
Minimum Wage Rate in NZ 2024
The term “minimum wage rate in NZ 2024” generally refers to the legislated adult rate of 23.15 per hour, with 18.52 applying to starting-out and training categories. These rates form the legally enforceable minimum standard employers must meet. New Zealand’s minimum wage system is reviewed annually to ensure alignment with economic and social policy objectives, such as supporting low-income households and maintaining employment sustainability.
What Is the Minimum Wage in NZ 2024 Per Hour?
The minimum wage in New Zealand for 2024 is 23.15 per hour for adult workers. This rate applies broadly across industries and roles, with only specific exceptions for starting-out and training categories. The rate reflects the government’s assessment of economic conditions and cost-of-living considerations. Workers and employers should use the hourly rate as the basis for all pay calculations and ensure compliance across all work hours, including overtime and variable shift patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NZ minimum wage going up in 2025?
New Zealand adjusts the minimum wage every year on 1 April, so it is likely that the minimum wage will change again in 2025. However, the government does not confirm new minimum wage rates until official reviews are completed. These reviews consider inflation, cost of living, wage growth, employment trends and business conditions. Until the government publishes the official 2025 update, the minimum wage remains at the 2024 rate of 23.15 per hour. Workers and employers should monitor announcements early in the year, as changes usually become public several weeks before 1 April.
What is the living wage in NZ in 2024?
The living wage in New Zealand for 2024 is 27.80 per hour. This rate is calculated independently from the legal minimum wage and reflects what a worker needs to cover basic living costs, including housing, food, transport, healthcare, childcare and participation in the community. The living wage provides a benchmark for fair, sustainable income rather than the minimum legal requirement. Although employers are not required by law to pay the living wage, many councils, NGOs, ethical employers and accredited Living Wage Employers adopt it to support staff wellbeing and financial security.
Is $30 an hour good in NZ?
Earning 30 an hour in New Zealand is above both the 2024 minimum wage and the 2024 living wage. At 30 per hour, a full-time worker earns around 62,400 before tax annually, which generally provides a more comfortable standard of living than minimum wage earnings. Depending on location, housing costs, dependants and lifestyle expectations, 30 per hour can be considered a reasonable, sustainable wage. In major cities with higher rent and transport costs, it may feel closer to average. Nationally, however, 30 per hour is widely regarded as solid earnings for most occupations.
What is 40 hours minimum wage in NZ?
A 40-hour work week at the 2024 adult minimum wage of 23.15 per hour results in weekly earnings of 926.00 before tax. This does not include deductions such as PAYE, ACC, KiwiSaver or student loan repayments, which reduce take-home pay. A full-time minimum wage worker earning this amount would receive approximately 48,152 annually before tax. This weekly calculation is the standard reference point for understanding how minimum wage income translates into regular living expenses, budgeting, and eligibility for certain financial assistance programmes.
What is the living wage in New Zealand 2024–2025?
For the 2024–2025 period, the New Zealand living wage rate is 27.80 per hour. This figure came into effect on 1 September 2024 and reflects updated assessments of essential household costs. The living wage is not set by the government but by independent researchers who evaluate real-world expenses such as rent, food, utilities and transport. The 2024–2025 living wage aims to provide a realistic income for meeting modern living costs without financial strain. While voluntary, the living wage standard is increasingly adopted by employers committed to fair remuneration and worker wellbeing across New Zealand.
What is the real living wage in 2024?
The “real living wage” in 2024 refers to the income level required for a worker to meet essential costs while maintaining a basic quality of life. In New Zealand, this is reflected by the 2024–2025 living wage of 27.80 per hour. Although some people use the term to mean inflation-adjusted or cost-of-living-adjusted wages globally, in New Zealand the recognised benchmark is the official living wage rate calculated by independent researchers. The real living wage aims to provide enough for housing, food, transport and social participation. It is higher than the legal minimum wage of 23.15 per hour.
What’s the difference between the living wage and the minimum wage?
The minimum wage is a legally mandated hourly rate that employers must pay all eligible workers. In 2024, this rate is 23.15 per hour for adult workers. The living wage, currently 27.80 per hour, is a voluntary benchmark calculated to reflect the real cost of living. Unlike the minimum wage, it is not required by law but represents the income needed for a worker and their family to live with dignity. The minimum wage ensures basic protection, while the living wage aims to ensure financial wellbeing by accounting for rent, food, transport and community participation costs.
What salary is considered a living wage?
A living wage salary in New Zealand is calculated using the living wage hourly rate of 27.80. A full-time worker earning this rate over 40 hours per week would earn approximately 57,824 annually before tax. This salary is intended to cover essential household costs, including rent, utilities, food, transport, clothing, healthcare and basic social participation. While the living wage is not mandatory, it serves as a reference point for employers aiming to support fair pay and for workers seeking financial stability. Salaries below this threshold often lead to budget stress, especially in higher-cost regions.
What is the difference between minimum wage and living wage in NZ?
In New Zealand, the minimum wage is a legally enforceable hourly rate that all eligible employers must pay. For 2024, this is 23.15 per hour. The living wage, however, is a voluntary rate, set at 27.80 per hour for the 2024–2025 period, calculated based on the cost of sustaining a decent standard of living. The minimum wage focuses on legal compliance and labour protection, while the living wage reflects affordability, wellbeing and real-world living costs. Both concepts are widely discussed in economic, employment and political contexts, but only the minimum wage is mandated by law.
Is 30 dollars an hour good in NZ?
Earning 30 per hour in New Zealand is generally seen as a positive income level, especially relative to the 2024 minimum wage of 23.15 and the living wage of 27.80. At this rate, a full-time worker earns around 62,400 annually before tax. This level of income usually allows for manageable living expenses, greater financial flexibility and improved savings capacity. The value of 30 per hour varies depending on location, household size and financial commitments. In major urban centres like Auckland and Wellington, higher housing costs may influence how comfortable this income feels.
Can you live on $30 an hour?
Yes, many New Zealanders can live on 30 per hour, as it is above both the minimum wage and the living wage. At full-time hours, the income totals around 62,400 annually before tax. This typically covers essential living costs such as rent, food, transportation and utilities. However, lifestyle comfort depends on factors such as city size, housing market, dependants and debt levels. In regions with lower housing costs, 30 per hour may provide a comfortable lifestyle. In high-cost cities, budgeting discipline may be necessary to maintain financial stability while earning this wage.
What is a good hourly rate in NZ?
A good hourly rate in New Zealand depends on industry, experience and location, but generally, anything above 30 per hour is considered solid earnings. This rate exceeds both the minimum wage of 23.15 and the living wage of 27.80. Skilled trades, technical roles, healthcare, IT and specialised fields often pay well above this level. A good hourly rate should allow workers to cover essential expenses, manage savings, handle unexpected costs and maintain a reasonable quality of life. In higher-cost cities, higher hourly rates may be needed to achieve the same lifestyle.
What is considered a high salary in NZ?
A high salary in New Zealand typically starts around 100,000 per year. This level of income places a worker above the national median and provides greater financial flexibility. High salaries are common in senior professional roles, IT, engineering, healthcare, corporate management and specialist technical fields. However, cost of living varies significantly between regions, with cities like Auckland requiring higher incomes for the same lifestyle. While 100,000 is often viewed as a strong salary, the perception of “high income” also depends on household size, debt, housing ownership and lifestyle choices.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in NZ?
Living comfortably in New Zealand generally requires an annual income between 70,000 and 90,000 for a single person, depending on region and lifestyle. This range provides enough to cover rent, food, transport, healthcare, savings and moderate discretionary spending. Couples or families typically require higher household incomes to maintain comfort. In major urban areas with high housing costs, such as Auckland and Wellington, comfortable living thresholds may be higher. While minimum wage and living wage incomes provide basic coverage, comfort usually comes from earnings well above these levels due to rising living costs.
How much is $70,000 a year hourly?
A salary of 70,000 per year converts to approximately 33.65 per hour based on a 40-hour work week over 52 weeks. This rate is above both the minimum wage of 23.15 and the living wage of 27.80, placing the earner in a more comfortable financial position compared to lower wage levels. The hourly equivalent is useful for evaluating job offers, comparing earnings and assessing whether income meets personal or household cost-of-living needs. Workers earning this rate generally experience improved financial stability relative to the national average.
What is the minimum wage for 40 hours per year?
This question usually refers to annual earnings based on 40 hours per week at the minimum wage. At the 2024 adult rate of 23.15 per hour, a worker earns 926.00 per week and approximately 48,152 annually before tax. New Zealand law focuses on hourly requirements, meaning employers must ensure every hour worked is compensated at least at the minimum rate. Understanding the annualised amount helps employees budget and compare wages but does not replace the legal requirement for hourly compliance.
What is NZ minimum wage per hour?
New Zealand’s minimum wage per hour in 2024 is 23.15 for adult workers. This rate is set by the government and applies across all sectors, unless workers qualify for the starting-out or training wage, both set at 18.52 per hour. The rate reflects the government’s annual review of cost-of-living changes, wage pressure, business impacts and macroeconomic trends. Employers must pay at least this amount for every hour worked, ensuring compliance with the country’s employment standards.
Is $27 an hour good pay in NZ?
Earning 27 per hour in New Zealand is slightly below the official living wage of 27.80 for 2024–2025 but still above the minimum wage of 23.15. This income level can provide a reasonable standard of living for many individuals, although comfort varies based on region and personal financial obligations. At 27 per hour, a full-time worker earns around 56,160 annually before tax. In lower-cost regions, this can be sufficient for most living expenses, while in major cities, tighter budgeting may be required.
What is the legal minimum hourly wage for a casual worker?
Casual workers in New Zealand are entitled to the same minimum wage protections as permanent or part-time employees. In 2024, casual workers must be paid at least 23.15 per hour if they fall under the adult minimum wage category. Casual roles often include an additional 8% holiday pay, which must be paid separately and cannot be used to reduce the hourly rate below the legal minimum. Employers must ensure casual staff receive the correct rate for every hour worked and that payments are transparent on payslips.
How much should I get paid for 40 hours?
If you are paid the 2024 adult minimum wage of 23.15 per hour, you should receive 926.00 before tax for a 40-hour work week. Workers earning above minimum wage will have higher weekly totals, depending on their hourly rate. Employers must ensure all hours worked are compensated at or above the legal minimum. Additional factors such as overtime, allowances, deductions and agreements may affect final take-home pay. Understanding the minimum entitlement helps workers identify whether their income aligns with employment law and ensures transparency in workplace pay practices.
Is 11.44 an hour minimum wage?
No, 11.44 per hour is not the minimum wage in New Zealand. The 2024 adult minimum wage is significantly higher at 23.15 per hour. A rate of 11.44 may apply in some international jurisdictions, particularly the UK, but it does not apply in New Zealand. New Zealand has one of the higher minimum wage standards globally, designed to support basic living costs and ensure worker protection. Any employer paying less than the NZ minimum wage would be in breach of employment law, unless the worker is under 16 or falls into a non-covered category.
