Minimum Wage

The minimum wage for employees aged 16 years and over, except for new entrants and trainees, will be $12.75 an hour before tax from 1 April 2010.

From 1 April 2010, the training wage increased to $10.20 an hour before tax.  The training wage applies to people doing recognised industry training involving at least 60 credits a year.

The new entrants minimum wage has also increased to $10.20 before tax, as of 1 April 2010. The new entrants minimum wage applies to some 16 and 17 year old workers.

There is no statutory minimum wage for employees who are under 16 years old.

By law, employers must pay at least the minimum wage - even if an employee is paid by commission or by piece rate. The minimum wage applies to all workers aged 16 years or older, including home workers, casuals, temporary and part-time workers.

The only exception is when an employee holds an exemption permit.

Holiday pay must be paid in addition to the minimum wage. If an employee receives “pay-as-you-go” holiday pay, this payment must be a separate and identifiable part of their pay.

For further clarification, more detailed information or guidance of the minimum wage, please visit www.dol.govt.nz.