NZ Apprentice Wage Rates 2026
Legal Minimum Rates
NZ has two sub-minimum wage rates that may apply to apprentices:
Training minimum wage: $19.16/hr (80% of $23.95 adult minimum) — applies to workers aged 20+ who are party to a recognised industry training agreement of at least 60 credits per year.
Starting-out wage: $19.16/hr (80% of adult minimum) — may apply to workers aged 16–19 in their first 6 months with a new employer, or those in recognised training.
Most employers in trades pay above these minimums, especially from Year 2 onward.
Industry Training Bodies
- BCITO — Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation (builders, carpenters, roofers, painters)
- E-tec — Electrical apprenticeships
- PGDB — Plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers board
- Competenz — Engineering, fabrication, and other trades
What Apprentices Cost Beyond Wages
When budgeting for an apprentice, remember to include: - KiwiSaver — 3% employer contribution minimum - ACC employer levy — varies by trade classification - Holiday pay — 8% of gross or 4 weeks annual leave - Training levies — BCITO charges $50/week approximately per apprentice - Tool allowance — many employers contribute toward personal tools - Supervision time — experienced tradies spend time mentoring
Use our PAYE Employee Cost Calculator for a full employer cost breakdown.