Why New Zealand Has Some of the Highest Paying Jobs in 2026
New Zealand offers some of the highest-paying jobs globally due to skill shortages, strong employment laws, and high demand for qualified professionals. Industries such as IT, healthcare, construction, finance, and executive management consistently offer six-figure salaries.
With post-study work visa options and clear skilled migration pathways, New Zealand is an attractive destination for international graduates and experienced professionals looking to build high-paying careers.
Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!
Recommended Study in New Zealand
15 Highest paid jobs in NZ
- Information Technology Manager
- Building and Construction Manager
- Information Technology Architect
- Marketing Manager
- Procurement Manager
- Ship’s Master
- Ophthalmologist
- Mine Manager
- Senior Communications Specialist
- Financial Advisor
- Head of HR
- Pathologist
- Anaesthesiologist
- Managing Director/Chief Executive
- Judge
Here, we explore the 15 highest paid jobs in New Zealand, ordered by median wage from lowest to highest.
Table of Contents
- Why New Zealand Has Some of the Highest Paying Jobs in 2026
- 15 Highest paid jobs in NZ
- 1. Information Technology Manager
- 2. Building and Construction Manager
- 3. Information Technology Architect
- 4. Marketing Manager
- 5. Procurement Manager
- 6. Ship’s Master
- 7. Ophthalmologist
- 8. Mine Manager
- 9. Senior Communications Specialist
- 10. Financial Advisor
- 11. Head of HR
- 12. Pathologist
- 13. Anaesthesiologist
- 14. Managing Director/Chief Executive
- 15. Judge
- Here is the summary of the 15 Best highest paid jobs in NZ
- Are These High-Paying Jobs in Demand in New Zealand?
- How International Students Can Get High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
- Which Cities in New Zealand Offer the Highest Salaries?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the highest paid job in NZ?
- What are the top 10 highest paid jobs in NZ?
- Which jobs pay over NZ$200,000 in New Zealand?
- Are high-paying jobs available for international students?
- Which degrees lead to the highest salaries in New Zealand?
- Can I get PR after working in a high-paying job?
- Is New Zealand a good country for career growth?
1. Information Technology Manager
First on our list of top-paying jobs in New Zealand is an IT manager. Responsible for coordinating, planning and leading IT-related activities within a business, as well as being responsible for integrating computer systems, this is a very vital role in any organisation.
Like a lot of roles in the IT industry, there are not many requirements, but a degree can be extremely beneficial. Such degrees include information technology and project management.
Salary Range: NZ$110K-$180K per year
Also read: Highest paying computer science jobs
2. Building and Construction Manager
The construction industry in New Zealand is constantly in high demand. Arguably, this is amongst the most important jobs within the construction industry as they are in charge of overseeing the entire project. They also liaise closely with engineers. With a relevant degree and experience in the construction industry, workers will be financially rewarded in this career.
Salary Range: NZ$92K-$224K per year
3. Information Technology Architect
IT architects have some of the best-paid jobs in the IT industry, even if you are just starting out. In charge of designing, implementing and overseeing security and business technologies, this job keeps the technology and software up to date. A Bachelors of Information Systems and a minimum of ten years experience is usually required to become an IT architect.
Salary Range: NZ$140K-$200K per year
4. Marketing Manager
Those with a communications or marketing degree will be interested to know that a marketing manager is up there with being one of the highest paying jobs in New Zealand. Managing the promotional aspects of a business or brand, this job creates brand awareness. This role often offers great benefits including housing and transport. Many aspire to be a marketing manager.
Salary Range: NZ$96K-$230K per year
5. Procurement Manager
While there are no requirements to become a procurement manager, having a degree in business or management is a great asset to have. As the primary point of contact between the supplier and business, they play a vital role in each business. Procurement is continuously in high demand in New Zealand and often comes with great benefits.
Salary Range: NZ$69K-$196K per year
Also read: Most demanding jobs in the UK
6. Ship’s Master
With much of New Zealand’s trade entering the country via the ocean, those in charge of the ships are in demand and offered a very competitive salary. Also known as a ship’s captain, this person is responsible for the boat, crew, passengers and cargo. To become a ship’s master you must gain a certificate of competency after attaining the necessary experience and qualifications.
Salary Range: NZ$44K-$250K per year
Time is running out! Secure your spot for the upcoming intake—apply today!
7. Ophthalmologist
Performing eye surgery, diagnosing eye diseases, prescribing and fitting glasses are all part of daily life as an ophthalmologist. This role requires a Bachelor of Health Sciences or Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences, plus a minimum of two years as a junior supervised doctor. Specialised testing and qualifications are also required which can take upwards of five years. But, it’s all worth it when you see the salary!
Salary Range: NZ$58K-$240K per year
8. Mine Manager
Mining is an extremely lucrative business, and no degree is required to enter this industry. Instead, extensive experience in the sector is required to progress to this position. Mine managers oversee the operation of the mine as well as planning and organising staff and activities Those with an engineering degree are also looked favourably upon in mining roles.
Salary Range: NZ$130K-$210K per year
9. Senior Communications Specialist
Degrees in business, journalism, communications and public relations are hugely beneficial in the communications sector, especially if you want to become a senior communications specialist. The job requires you to be extremely versatile, as you should be able to conduct marketing campaigns, create content as well as gather and disseminate data. With the ability to progress from account manager all the way to the top, this is a great way to get into a high paid role.
Salary Range: NZ$70K-$250K per year
Related: Working while studying in New Zeland
10. Financial Advisor
Advising people on how best to use and manage their money is amongst the daily tasks of a financial advisor. Although this isn’t the easiest of jobs to get into, Financial Advisors are some of the best paid in the finance sector. You do require a relevant degree in business, finance or banking as well as a Financial Advice Provider Licence.
Salary Range: NZ$70K-$250K per year
11. Head of HR
By being the Head of HR, you will be responsible for the hiring process and acting as the point of contact for employee issues. Entry into HR is quite easy, as the department will usually accept someone with any degree. If you’re good with people and a great communicator, you will quickly find yourself climb the ranks of this department.
Salary Range: NZ$92K-$133K per year
12. Pathologist
Conducting lab tests and carrying out autopsies are part of the job description. Pathologists need to complete a minimum of 13 years of training, which includes five years spent completing a Bachelor of Medicine or Bachelor of Surgery. However, a pathologist can make a pretty hefty sum.
Qualified Salary Range: NZ$164K-$245K per year
13. Anaesthesiologist
In surgery, the anesthesiologist is responsible for constantly conducting medical assessments of the patient and control the patient’s vital life functions. As the best paid of the medical profession, it is no surprise that anaesthesiologists are up there with the top-paying jobs in New Zealand. While training takes a minimum of 13 years, the pay cheque is definitely worth it!
Qualified Salary Range: NZ$164K-$244K per year
14. Managing Director/Chief Executive
These positions include CEOs, CFOs and senior managers. These roles direct the activities of a business or organisation. To attain this role usually a relevant bachelor's degree is required, but it is not essential! Experience is key, with people working their way up the company over a number of years.
Salary Range: NZ$250K-$1M per year
15. Judge
Unsurprisingly, judges top the best paying jobs in New Zealand. As impartial decision-makers in the judicial process, judges come with a substantial pay packet. To become a judge here you must have a Bachelors of Law and have completed a professional legal studies course. You must also have practised as a barrister for a minimum of seven years.
Salary range: NZ$358K-$525K per year
Here is the summary of the 15 Best highest paid jobs in NZ
| S.No | Jobs | Salary Range (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Information Technology Manager | $110K-$180K |
| 2 | Building and Construction Manager | $92K-$224K |
| 3 | Information Technology Architect | $140K-$200K |
| 4 | Marketing Manager | $96K-$230K |
| 5 | Procurement Manager | $69K-$196K |
| 6 | Ship’s Master | $44K-$250K |
| 7 | Ophthalmologist | $58K-$240K |
| 8 | Mine Manager | $130K-$210K |
| 9 | Senior Communications Specialist | $70K-$250K |
| 10 | Financial Advisor | $70K-$250K |
| 11 | Head of HR | $92K-$133K |
| 12 | Pathologist | $164K-$245K |
| 13 | Anaesthesiologist | $164K-$244K |
| 14 | Managing Director/Chief Executive | $250K-$1M |
| 15 | Judge | $358K-$525K |
Salary data source: Salary figures are based on New Zealand government labour statistics, industry reports, and employer disclosures. Actual salaries vary depending on experience, location, and employer.
Last updated: 2025 (Verify annually)
Are These High-Paying Jobs in Demand in New Zealand?
| Job Role | Demand Level | Skill Shortage Status |
|---|---|---|
| IT Manager | High | Yes |
| Construction Manager | Very High | Yes |
| IT Architect | High | Yes |
| Healthcare Specialists | Critical | Yes |
| Marketing Manager | Medium | No |
| Financial Advisor | Medium | No |
| Executive Roles | High | No |
How International Students Can Get High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
International students can access high-paying jobs in New Zealand by following a clear study-to-work pathway.
Step 1: Study a high-demand degree (IT, healthcare, engineering, business)
Step 2: Graduate and apply for a post-study work visa
Step 3: Gain skilled work experience
Step 4: Apply for skilled migrant residency
Degrees aligned with skill shortages significantly increase employability and long-term salary potential.
Related articles
Which Cities in New Zealand Offer the Highest Salaries?
Salaries in New Zealand vary by location. Auckland and Wellington generally offer higher salaries due to demand, while Christchurch and Hamilton provide balanced pay with lower living costs.
| City | Salary Potential |
|---|---|
| Auckland | Very High |
| Wellington | High |
| Christchurch | Medium–High |
| Hamilton | Medium |
Interested in finding a university degree that will lead you to some of the best paying jobs in New Zealand? Let us help you find your dream course and university today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest paid job in NZ?
IT manager is the highest paid job in NZ with the salary of NZ$110K-$180K per year.
What are the top 10 highest paid jobs in NZ?
- Information Technology Manager - $110K-$180K
- Building and Construction Manager - $92K-$224K
- Information Technology Architect - $140K-$200K
- Marketing Manager - $96K-$230K
- Procurement Manager - $69K-$196K
- Ship’s Master - $44K-$250K
- Ophthalmologist - $58K-$240K
- Mine Manager - $130K-$210K
- Senior Communications Specialist - $70K-$250K
- Financial Advisor - $70K-$250K
Which jobs pay over NZ$200,000 in New Zealand?
Jobs such as judges, chief executives, anaesthesiologists, IT architects, and construction managers can earn over NZ$200,000 per year depending on experience and location.
Are high-paying jobs available for international students?
Yes, international graduates can access high-paying jobs through post-study work visas, especially in industries facing skill shortages such as IT, healthcare, and engineering.
Which degrees lead to the highest salaries in New Zealand?
Degrees in information technology, medicine, engineering, construction management, and business leadership often lead to the highest-paying careers in New Zealand.
Can I get PR after working in a high-paying job?
Yes, skilled employment in high-demand occupations can qualify you for New Zealand’s skilled migrant residency pathways.
Is New Zealand a good country for career growth?
New Zealand offers strong career progression, competitive salaries, and excellent work-life balance, making it an attractive destination for professionals.
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