The best paying jobs in New Zealand

Salaries in New Zealand have been gradually increasing on average over the last ten years. For those looking to move into or start a new role, it’s worth knowing how much you can expect to earn in a new career. With that in mind, we take a look at some of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand.

We look at a varied selection of jobs across several different industries. As well as outlining average salaries, we also examine the requirements needed to get into each career. Additionally, we’ve included links to some relevant courses that can help get you started. These give you the chance to explore whether a particular field is a good fit for you.

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Software Engineer

What is a software engineer?

Software engineers specialise in developing and building either computer systems software or applications software. These two fields include operations (back end) systems and user-facing programs respectively. With the rise of digital applications of all types, there is a lot of demand for these professionals. As such, this is one of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand.

How do you become a software engineer?

Although there are no specific requirements to become a software engineer, you’ll need a lot of knowledge about the field. As a result, a degree in computer science, business computing or similar is usually beneficial. Similarly, an industry-based certification and experience working on projects are highly desirable.

How much do software engineers make?

The average salary for a software engineer in New Zealand is NZ$70,699.

Explore Our Coding & Programming Courses

Oil and Gas Engineer

What is an oil and gas engineer?

There are many different kinds of engineers, but ultimately, it’s a profession focused on solving problems. Oil and gas engineers ensure that gas and oil is safely and efficiently extracted from reservoirs. As well as planning and assessing locations, they also ensure that health and safety regulations are in place for all employees. Given the country’s rich reserves, this is one of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand.

How do you become an oil and gas engineer?

You’ll want to start your journey by studying for a degree in a relevant subject. Many oil and gas engineers also have postgraduate qualifications in engineering-related subjects. You’ll also want to spend time gaining on-the-job training from qualified professionals.

How much do oil and gas engineers make?

The average salary for an oil and gas engineer in New Zealand is NZ$101,000.

Explore Our Engineering Courses

Accountant

What is an accountant?

Accountants are professionals who are responsible for making sure financial accounts are in good order. They work with both individuals and businesses to check records, balance the books, provide insights and suggest targets. Ultimately, the role of an accountant is to make sure that their clients are maximising their profits. It’s a role that is essential in just about every industry, making it one of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand.

How do you become an accountant?

It takes between two and six years to train as an accountant in New Zealand. You’ll need to start with a degree in either accounting or a business-related subject. From there, you’ll need three years of professional experience, as well as a qualification from the Chartered Accountants Australia New Zealand (CA ANZ) organisation.

How much do accountants make?

The average salary for an accountant in New Zealand is NZ$55,002.

Explore Our Finance and Accounting Courses

Investment Banker

What is an investment banker?

Investment bankers work to secure capital for a wide range of organisations, often in affiliation with banks. They help to orchestrate complicated financial transactions, such as acquisitions, mergers, and sales. Investment bankers also use their knowledge of analytics and financial markets to identify risks and issue securities.

How do you become an investment banker?

You’ll usually need an undergraduate degree and an MBA to start a career in investment banking. You’ll then need to spend time developing your experience, often with something like a training scheme or internship.

How much do investment bankers make?

The average salary for an investment banker in New Zealand is NZ$75,000.

Discover Our Finance Fundamentals: Investment Theory and Practice Course

Anaesthesiologist

What is an anaesthesiologist?

An anaesthesiologist is a doctor who specialises in anaesthesia, the reduction or prevention of pain. They are responsible for the care of patients before, during, and after operations and other medical procedures. It’s a role with a lot of responsibility, making it one of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand.

How do you become an anaesthesiologist?

To become an anaesthesiologist, you’ll first have to qualify as a doctor. This means you’ll need to study for a five-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree (MBChB). Next, you’ll work as a supervised junior doctor in a hospital for at least two years. Next, you’ll need five years of specialist training, before becoming a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists.

How much do anaesthesiologists make?

The average salary for an anaesthesiologist in New Zealand is NZ$175,004.

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Construction Manager

What is a construction manager?

Construction managers (also known as site managers) are responsible for the safe completion of building projects. They also have to ensure the project is completed to the agreed-upon budget and timeframe. It’s a role that requires a lot of collaboration, as construction managers must work with and supervise a range of other professionals.

How do you become a construction manager?

A good place to start is with a relevant qualification. A degree in civil engineering or other building and construction qualifications can help. However, one of the key things for this role is experience. You’ll need a broad knowledge of the roles and processes that go into managing a construction site.

How much do construction managers make?

The average salary for a construction manager in New Zealand is NZ$93,257.

Kickstart your Construction Career and Explore Our Construction Courses

Veterinarian

What is a veterinarian?

A veterinarian is a medical professional who is responsible for diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries and disorders in non-human animals. They also give owners advice on how to care for their pets and livestock. It’s a role that requires specialist knowledge and a specific skillset, making it among the best-paying jobs in New Zealand.

How do you become a veterinarian?

To become a veterinarian in New Zealand, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in veterinary science. From there, you’ll need to gain experience and register with the Veterinary Council of New Zealand.

How much do veterinarians make?

The average salary for a veterinarian in New Zealand is NZ$78,667.

Discover Our Antimicrobial Stewardship in Veterinary Practice Course

Quantity Surveyor

What is a quantity surveyor?

Quantity surveyors are responsible for managing the costs of civil engineering and other building projects. They work to minimise the overall costs and risk of such projects, making sure they maintain quality and meet legal standards. It’s a role that has an influence over every stage of the process, from the planning onwards.

How do you become a quantity surveyor?

You’ll need the right set of qualifications to become a quantity surveyor in New Zealand. To start with, you’ll want either a New Zealand Diploma in Construction or a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying. Degrees in construction or economics are also accepted.

How much do quantity surveyors make?

The average salary for a quantity surveyor in New Zealand is NZ$71,321.

Find Out More About a BSc in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management Course