What is the NZ Living Wage in 2026–27?
The 2026–27 Living Wage is $29.90 per hour from 1 September 2026.
NZ Living Wage 2026–27 - Current Rate and Take-Home Pay
The 2026–27 NZ Living Wage is $29.90 per hour from 1 September 2026, equal to $62,192 a year at 40 hours a week.
Updated 21 September 2026
Updated September 2026. Rate checked against Living Wage Movement Aotearoa NZ.
Current living wage rate
The 2026–27 NZ Living Wage is $29.90 per hour from 1 September 2026.
| Measure | Current amount |
|---|---|
| Hourly | $29.90 |
| Weekly, 40 hours | $1,196.00 |
| Annual, 40 hours × 52 weeks | $62,192 |
The Living Wage is independently calculated and is voluntary; it is not the legal minimum wage.
Living Wage vs minimum wage
| Measure | Living Wage | Adult minimum wage |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly | $29.90 | $23.95 |
| Annual, 40 hours × 52 weeks | $62,192 | $49,816 |
| Difference | $5.95/hr | $12,376/yr |
See the full NZ minimum wage breakdown.
Estimated take-home pay
For a full-time worker earning $29.90 an hour for 40 hours a week:
| Item | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Gross annual pay | $62,192 |
| Income tax plus PAYE-side ACC | $11,966 |
| Take-home, no KiwiSaver | $50,226/yr — $966/wk |
| Take-home after 3.5% KiwiSaver | $48,049/yr — $924/wk |
These estimates use 2026–27 income-tax bands and the 1.75% PAYE Earners’ levy. They assume an M tax code, no student loan, no Working for Families, no child support and no secondary income. Check your circumstances in the TaxPop PAYE Calculator.
Who sets the Living Wage?
The Family Centre Social Policy Research Unit calculates the rate. Living Wage Movement Aotearoa New Zealand announces it and manages employer accreditation. Accredited employers are expected to pay at least the applicable rate to directly employed staff and qualifying contracted workers.
Living Wage and minimum wage are different
The government sets the legal minimum wage. The Living Wage is a voluntary benchmark intended to reflect the income needed for workers and their families to meet ordinary needs and participate in society.
FAQs
What is the NZ Living Wage in 2026–27?
The rate is $29.90 per hour from 1 September 2026.
Is the Living Wage compulsory?
No. It is voluntary. The adult minimum wage is the compulsory legal floor for eligible employees.
How much is the Living Wage annually?
At 40 hours a week for 52 weeks, $29.90 an hour equals $62,192 gross a year.
When does the Living Wage change?
The movement announces a new rate annually and accredited employers generally implement it from 1 September.
What will the 2027–28 rate be?
It has not yet been announced.
Related pages
FAQs
Is the Living Wage compulsory?
No. The Living Wage is voluntary; the statutory minimum wage is the legal wage floor.
Who sets the Living Wage?
The Family Centre Social Policy Research Unit calculates the rate, and Living Wage Movement Aotearoa New Zealand announces it and manages accreditation.
How much is the Living Wage annually?
At $29.90 per hour for 40 hours a week and 52 weeks, the gross annual equivalent is $62,192.