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Salary expectations and negotiating a job offer in NZ

8 minute readFinding work

In short

Research a range first, answer with a range based on the market, not your last pay, and negotiate the whole package after you have a written offer. In a tight market, being reasonable and enthusiastic matters, but you can still ask politely about pay, hours, leave and review dates. Get everything in writing and read the agreement before you start.

Research your range

  • Check the ad: many NZ ads show a range or band; if not, compare similar ads on SEEK (it shows salary insights for many roles).
  • Tahatū Career Navigator shows typical pay for many occupations.
  • Ask recruiters and people in the industry what's typical in your region.
  • Check the Employment NZ minimum wage page so you know the floor: $23.95 an hour for adults from 1 April 2026.
  • Remember that average ordinary-time hourly earnings across the economy are about $44.62 (Stats NZ, June 2026 quarter). Your sector and region will vary.

When they ask 'What are your salary expectations?'

Early stage (ad, phone screen)

"I'm looking at roles in the $65,000-$75,000 range depending on the responsibilities and benefits. Could you tell me the range you have for this role?"

If they push for a number and you don't know

"I'd like to learn more about the role first. What's the budgeted range? I'm flexible for the right fit and I'm confident we can agree something fair."

If asked about your current/last salary

"I'd rather focus on what this role is worth. Based on the responsibilities and market, I'm looking for $X-$Y."

You can politely decline to give your previous salary. Giving a range with the real number you want near the bottom keeps you from underpricing yourself.

Negotiating an offer

  1. Get the offer in writing, including salary, hours, start date, role title and any trial period.
  2. Thank them and show enthusiasm. Ask for 24-48 hours to review. This is normal.
  3. Compare against your target range. Decide what is flexible: base pay, hours, leave, remote days, training, review date, start date, sign-on bonus.
  4. Ask politely and specifically. Give a reason.
  5. If they can't move on pay, ask about a salary review at 6 months, extra leave or professional development.
  6. Agree, then get an updated offer in writing before you resign from another role or sign the agreement.

Counter-offer email

Subject: Re: Offer: [Job title] Kia ora [Name], Thank you so much for the offer. I'm excited about joining the team and really enjoyed meeting everyone. Before I accept, I'd like to discuss the salary. Based on my [X years' experience / the scope of the role / market rates for similar positions], I was hoping for $[figure]. Is there flexibility there? If the budget is fixed, I'd also appreciate a review after six months or [additional leave / flexible start]. I'm keen to make this work. Ngā mihi, [Name]

Before you sign: check the employment agreement

Employers must give you a written employment agreement, and you're entitled to time and the chance to get advice before signing. Check:

  • Pay rate, how often you're paid, and whether salary includes overtime or holiday pay.
  • Hours, breaks and when you work (including on-call).
  • Trial period: a trial of up to 90 calendar days is only valid if it is in a written agreement you sign before you start work. During a valid trial you generally can't bring an unjustified dismissal grievance, but other grievances (e.g. discrimination) remain. Migrants on an Accredited Employer Work Visa can't be put on a trial period. Check employment.govt.nz.
  • Notice period, redundancy clause (compensation or not), restraint of trade and confidentiality.
  • Place of work and any relocation.
  • Probation, training and review dates.
  • KiwiSaver employer contribution, leave and benefits.

Sources

General information only. Confirm with the agency for your situation. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.

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