Median Wage NZ 2026: The Immigration Rate and the Latest Stats NZ Figures

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) uses a median wage of NZD $35.00 an hour from 9 March 2026, based on Stats NZ’s June 2025 data (immigration.govt.nz). Stats NZ has since published its June 2026 figure: median hourly earnings of $35.96, and average ordinary-time hourly earnings of $44.62 (Stats NZ).

For a visa, only INZ’s figure counts. The Stats NZ numbers describe the labour market; they do not change any visa threshold until INZ adopts them.

What is the median wage in NZ in 2026?

Stats NZ’s median rose $0.96 (2.7 percent) from $35.00 in the June 2025 quarter. That $35.00 is the figure INZ adopted in March 2026.

At 40 hours a week for 52 weeks, $35.00 an hour comes to $72,800 a year, the annual figure INZ now uses for parent sponsorship.

What is the difference between the median and the average wage?

The median is the middle: half of employees earn less and half earn more. The average (mean) adds up all pay and divides by the number of people, so a small number of high earners pull it up. That is why the average of $44.62 sits well above the median of $35.96.

INZ ties its settings to the median, not the average. If you search “average wage NZ” to check a visa requirement, you are looking at the wrong number.

Which visa rules use the median wage?

INZ removed the general median wage requirement for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in March 2025, but several settings are still linked to it and updated automatically on 9 March 2026 (immigration.govt.nz):

From 30 April 2026, the sponsorship income thresholds for the Parent Category and the Parent Boost Visitor Visa also moved to the $35.00 figure. Our Parent Resident Visa page sets out the thresholds by family size.

The SMC uses multiples of the same base for its different pathways and income points: $38.50, $42.00, $52.50, $70.00 and $105.00 an hour (immigration.govt.nz). Our SMC points guide explains which rate applies to which claim.

Will the immigration median wage rise to $35.96?

INZ updates the immigration median wage once a year using Stats NZ data, and the March 2026 update used the June 2025 figure. It has not yet announced whether or when it will adopt the June 2026 figure of $35.96. Until it does, $35.00 is the rate INZ applies.

If your pay sits just above $35.00, plan for a possible increase. For most skilled residence pathways, once your work starts counting, a later rise in the rate does not stop it, as long as you stay in the same job and your pay does not fall below the rate that applied when you started (immigration.govt.nz). Changing employer can reset that, so check the rules for your pathway before you move jobs.

How do I check if my pay meets the rate?

Use our free skilled residence wage calculator. It checks your pay and work history against the wage rate that applied on each date, for the SMC, Green List and Work to Residence pathways. It is a wage and work-experience check only. It does not assess the other requirements for residence, such as your occupation, qualifications, health and character.

For the full rules on each pathway, see our guides to Work to Residence wage rates and the Skilled Migrant Category.

Frequently asked questions

What is the median wage for immigration in NZ in 2026?

Immigration New Zealand’s median wage is NZD $35.00 an hour from 9 March 2026, based on Stats NZ’s June 2025 data. It sets the Skilled Migrant Category wage threshold, the Green List Tier 2 and Transport Work to Residence rate, and several AEWV and family thresholds. Stats NZ’s newer June 2026 median of $35.96 does not apply to visas until INZ adopts it.

What is the average wage in NZ?

Stats NZ reported average ordinary-time hourly earnings of $44.62 in the June 2026 quarter, up from $43.39 a year earlier. The median, which is less affected by high earners, was $35.96 an hour. Visa thresholds use INZ’s median wage of $35.00, not the average, so check the INZ figure for any immigration requirement.

What is $35 an hour as a yearly salary in NZ?

At 40 hours a week for 52 weeks, $35.00 an hour is $72,800 a year. INZ uses that annual figure for parent sponsorship from 30 April 2026. For hourly visa requirements, INZ assesses the hourly rate itself, so a salary must still work out at $35.00 an hour or more for the hours you actually work.

Does the AEWV still need the median wage?

Not in general. INZ removed the median wage requirement for the Accredited Employer Work Visa in March 2025, and most roles now need the market rate instead. Some AEWV settings are still tied to the median: roles paid at least twice the median ($70.00) are exempt from advertising and minimum skills, and partner support thresholds use set hourly rates.

When does the immigration median wage change?

INZ updates the immigration median wage once a year using Stats NZ data. The latest update took effect on 9 March 2026, raising it from $33.56 to $35.00 based on the June 2025 figure. INZ has not yet announced an update based on Stats NZ’s June 2026 median of $35.96, so check INZ before relying on any new figure.

Current as at 5 November 2026, based on Immigration New Zealand policy and Stats NZ’s June 2026 quarter releases. For advice on your own situation, talk to a ProVisas Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA Licence 201301110).