In 2025, the average salary in New Zealand was around NZ$82,000 per year (Stats NZ). Salaries vary depending on industry and location, but professionals in healthcare, IT, finance, and executive roles often earn more than NZ$100,000 annually.
This guide covers:
- Qualifications and visa information for migrants
- Average salaries by New Zealand regions
- Jobs paying over $100k, with salary ranges and descriptions
Average Salaries by Region in New Zealand
According to NZ Herald and Stats NZ data, anything above NZ$70,000/year is considered a good salary in New Zealand. Here’s a breakdown by region:
- Wellington: NZ$82,400/year (highest due to government and IT jobs)
- Auckland: NZ$75,000/year (driven by finance, tech, and trade)
- Canterbury: NZ$74,000/year (engineering and construction strong)
- Otago: NZ$71,100/year
- Nelson: NZ$79,000/year
- New Plymouth (Taranaki): NZ$79,400/year
- (Other regions average NZ$68k–NZ$76k depending on industry)
High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand ($100k+)
Below are some of the top-paying jobs in New Zealand, with salary ranges and explanations.
1. Anaesthesiologist
- Salary: NZ$116k–$400k
- Why High-Paying: Essential in surgery, shortage of specialists.
- Requirements: Medical degree + registration with NZ Medical Council.
2. Orthodontist
- Salary: NZ$114k–$254k
- Why: High demand in private practice.
- Requirements: Dentistry degree + specialist orthodontic training.
3. Information Technology Architect
- Salary: NZ$112k–$155k
- Why: IT infrastructure roles are in high demand.
- Requirements: IT degree, certifications (AWS, Azure, etc.), 8+ years’ experience.
4. Managing Director / CEO
- Salary: NZ$120k–$700k
- Why: Senior leadership roles in major firms.
- Requirements: Extensive business experience, leadership skills, industry knowledge.
5. Senior Judge
- Salary: NZ$358k–$525k
- Why: Senior positions in NZ’s judicial system.
- Requirements: Law degree, 10+ years’ legal practice, judicial appointment.
(Continue list with other roles like Pathologists, Financial Advisors, Surgeons, etc.)
Pathways to $100k+ Jobs in New Zealand
- Healthcare & Science: Many roles (doctors, radiologists, biomedical engineers) are on Immigration NZ’s Green List — making it easier for skilled migrants to apply.
- IT & Engineering: Critical shortage in software architecture, cybersecurity, and civil engineering.
- Finance & Business: CFOs, financial advisors, and marketing directors are in demand, especially in Auckland & Wellington.
Work Visa for High-Paying Jobs
If you are not a New Zealand citizen or resident, you’ll likely need a work visa.
- Skilled professionals can apply under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
- Occupations on the Green List may qualify for fast-track residency.
- More info: Immigration NZ Green List.
People Also Ask
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What is considered a good salary in New Zealand?
A salary above NZ$70,000/year is generally considered good, as it is higher than the national median.
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Which industries have the highest-paying jobs?
Healthcare, IT, finance, and senior management lead in high salaries.
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Can foreigners apply for $100k jobs in NZ?
Yes — many $100k+ jobs are in skill shortage areas, making it easier for qualified migrants to apply.
