New Zealand to Raise Median Wage to NZD 35 Per Hour From March 9

If you are planning to work in New Zealand or hire overseas staff, this is something you need to know.

From March 9, 2026, New Zealand’s median wage will increase to NZD 35 per hour. While the general median wage rule for the Accredited Employer Work Visa was removed last year, several visa settings are still linked to this figure. And that means higher salary thresholds from March.

Here is what that really means in simple terms.

What Is Changing for the Accredited Employer Work Visa?

The change affects the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and other visas connected to it.

Back in March 2025, the government removed the general rule that required most AEWV jobs to match the median wage. That gave employers more flexibility.

However, not everything was removed. Some immigration rules are still tied to the median wage. Since the median wage is going up to NZD 35 per hour, those linked requirements will automatically rise too.

So even though the main wage rule is gone, the median wage still matters in key areas.

Which Immigration Settings Are Affected?

Several important visa conditions will increase from March 9, 2026.

Green List Salary Thresholds

Jobs listed on New Zealand’s Green List have specific salary requirements. These are based on the median wage. When the median wage increases, the required pay level for these roles increases as well.

If you are applying under a Green List role, double-check the new pay thresholds before submitting your application.

2. Jobs Paid at Twice the Median Wage

Some roles are exempt from advertising and certain minimum skill requirements if they are paid at least twice the median wage. With the new rate, the twice-the-median wage will now be NZD 35 per hour. That raises the salary level employers must offer to qualify for these exemptions.

3. Five-Year Stay for Certain Lower-Skilled Roles

Workers in some lower-skilled jobs can qualify for a maximum five-year stay if they earn at least 1.5 times the median wage. Since the median wage is rising, the 1.5 times threshold will also go up. This could affect workers who were close to meeting the old figure.

4. Income Requirements for Partners and Children

If you want to bring your partner or dependent children, you must meet income thresholds. These are also linked to the median wage. From March 9, 2026, the required income to support family members will increase. For most of the families in New Zealand, this is the most important change.

What Employers Should Do Now

If you are an accredited employer in New Zealand, this is the time to review:

• Current employment contracts
• Salary offers for upcoming hires
• Recruitment plans for 2026
• Ongoing visa applications

Even a small difference in hourly pay can affect visa eligibility.

Employers who are planning to hire foreign workers under the AEWV should calculate new pay levels now rather than waiting until March.

Why This Keeps Changing

New Zealand’s median wage is based on data from Stats NZ, usually from the June quarter. It can change every year. The updated rate typically takes effect early in the year, often in February or March. So this is not a one-time shift. It is part of a yearly adjustment process.

The Bottom Line for Foreign Workers

If you are applying for an Accredited Employer Work Visa or hoping to bring your family, check how much you are earning per hour.

From March 9, 2026, NZD 35 per hour becomes the new benchmark.

Even though the general median wage rule was removed in 2025, the number still drives key parts of the immigration system. And when it moves, visa rules move with it.

If you are close to a salary threshold, speak with your employer early. A small pay increase could make a big difference to your visa options and long-term plans in New Zealand.