Minimum wage NZ 2026–27
The adult minimum wage is $23.95 an hour from 1 April 2026. Full time at 40 hours that is $958.00 a week before tax, or $761.06 a week after PAYE, ACC and 3.5% KiwiSaver.
Minimum wage rates from 1 April 2026
| From 1 April 2026 | Per hour | 40 hours, per week | Per year | Take-home a week |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult minimum wage | $23.95 | $958.00 | $49,816 | $761.06 |
| Starting-out wage | $19.16 | $766.40 | $39,853 | $613.05 |
| Training wage | $19.16 | $766.40 | $39,853 | $613.05 |
Who gets which rate
- Adult minimum wage: most employees.
- Starting-out wage: certain young workers in their first months with an employer or coming off a benefit.
- Training wage: employees doing recognised industry training as part of their job.
The starting-out and training rates are 80% of the adult rate. Employers must pay at least the right rate for every hour worked, including time spent on required training.
Tax on the minimum wage
Full time at $23.95 you earn $49,816 a year. PAYE is $8,498 ($7,626 income tax and $872 ACC levy) and 3.5% KiwiSaver is $1,744, leaving $39,575. Because that income is between $24,000 and $66,000, you can claim the $520 independent earner tax credit on tax code ME, worth $10 a week, unless you or your partner get Working for Families or a benefit.
FAQ
How much is the minimum wage a year in NZ?
$49,816 at $23.95 an hour for 40 hours a week, or $41,318 after PAYE and ACC.
What is the starting-out wage?
$19.16 an hour from 1 April 2026, 80% of the adult rate. The training minimum wage is the same.
How much is minimum wage a week after tax?
$761.06 for 40 hours with 3.5% KiwiSaver, or $794.58 without KiwiSaver, on tax code M.