The current standard minimum wage in New Zealand is NZD $23.50 per hour for most workers aged 16 and over, effective from 1 April 2025.

Quick Scoop

  • Adult minimum wage (16+) : NZD $23.50 per hour before tax.
  • Starting-out wage : NZD $18.80 per hour (usually for some workers aged 16–19 who meet specific criteria).
  • Training wage : NZD $18.80 per hour for eligible workers doing recognized training.

From Hourly To Weekly

For someone on the adult minimum wage working full time (40 hours per week):

  • Hourly: NZD $23.50.
  • Approx weekly (before tax): NZD $940.
  • Approx fortnightly (before tax): NZD $1,880.

Recent Change And Timing

  • The adult minimum wage increased from $23.15 to $23.50 per hour on 1 April 2025.
  • Starting-out and training rates increased from $18.52 to $18.80 per hour at the same time.

Extra Pointers

  • These rates are before tax and other lawful deductions like PAYE, student loans, or child support.
  • Most employees 16 and over must get at least the adult rate unless they clearly fall under the starting-out or training categories.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.