Highest paying trade jobs in New Zealand

Key takeaways: 

• Skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and mechanics are in strong demand across New Zealand due to ongoing construction and infrastructure projects. 
• Salaries increase steadily with experience, with trades assistants earning between $60k–$70k and mechanics earning $70k–$90k per year. 
• Senior roles like project directors earn an average of $235k per year. 
• Location affects pay, with larger cities like Auckland and Wellington generally offering higher salaries than smaller towns. 
• Trades careers provide clear growth paths, and specialisation or advanced skills can significantly boost earning potential and overall pay.

New Zealand’s trades sector plays a crucial role in supporting the country’s infrastructure, construction, and maintenance needs. Ongoing investment in housing and industrial projects has driven strong demand for skilled tradespeople, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and mechanics. As a result, trades careers in New Zealand remain financially attractive. 

If you are wondering what trade makes the most money, you are in the right place. This guide explores the highest-paying trade jobs, highlights typical salaries across key trade jobs, and outlines what each role entails. It also explores factors that influence pay, including experience, location, and specialisation, helping you plan a clear career path in the industry.

Here’s what this guide will cover:  

• Trade jobs and average salaries in New Zealand
• Trade salaries in New Zealand
• Highest paying trade roles in New Zealand
• Explore more about trades salaries in New Zealand

Trade jobs and average salaries in New Zealand 

In the table below, let’s explore some trade jobs and the average tradie salary across different roles:

Trade salaries in New Zealand 

Salaries in New Zealand’s trades sector depend on the role and level of experience. Entry-level roles, like trades assistants, typically earn $60k–$70k per year. At the top end, project directors in construction and trades-related projects earn between $225k–$245k per year.

Larger cities such as Auckland and Wellington often offer higher rates because demand is stronger and living costs are higher. On the other hand, smaller towns may pay less but can still offer steady work and opportunities to grow.

Highest paying trade roles in New Zealand 

Trade jobs' salaries in New Zealand are influenced by experience, skill level, and the specific industry segment. Entry‑level workers and apprentices generally start closer to the median wage. Electricians, plumbers, and mechanics are in strong demand and can earn well above average if they are certified and experienced.

Here are some of the highest-paying trades roles: 

• Project Director 
• Mechanic 
• Plumber 
• Carpenter 
• Trades Assistant

Let’s take a closer look at these roles, starting with their typical pay and a quick summary of what each role involves. 

Project directors’ salary 

Project directors can expect annual earnings between $225k–$245k. They oversee all stages of a project, from initial planning to final delivery, ensuring objectives are achieved on time and within budget. Project directors coordinate multiple teams and stakeholders, allocate resources effectively, and monitor progress to keep projects on track.

They also identify and manage risks, resolve issues, and report on project status to senior management and clients. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in project management, business, or a related field is required. Strong leadership, strategic planning, communication, and problem-solving skills are critical to guiding projects successfully.

Mechanics’ salary

Mechanics in New Zealand receive in the range of $75k–$90k. They diagnose, repair, and maintain machinery, including car engines, HVAC systems, and other mechanical equipment. Mechanics use technical drawings, diagnostic tools, and specialised equipment to identify faults and perform repairs.

They also replace worn or defective parts and ensure machinery operates safely and efficiently. Completion of a relevant trade qualification or apprenticeship is generally expected. Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and practical experience with tools and machinery are required to perform well in this role. 

Plumbers’ salary

Plumbers can earn between $75k–$80k per year. They install, maintain, and repair water supply systems, pipes, drains, boilers, and related infrastructure in residential and commercial buildings. Plumbers often assess blueprints and specifications to plan installations and ensure systems function safely and efficiently.

They may also collaborate with other tradespeople on construction projects. Completing a four-year plumbing apprenticeship and registering with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board is required. Practical plumbing skills, problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with teams help succeed in this role. 

Carpenters’ salary

Salary levels for carpenters fall between $65k–$80k annually. They work with timber to construct, install, and repair building frameworks, fixtures, and fittings. Their tasks range from reading building plans to cutting, shaping, and assembling wood for structures or furniture.

Carpenters may specialise in areas such as cabinet making, finishing, or shop fitting and work on both indoor and outdoor projects. Completing an apprenticeship or a New Zealand Certificate in Carpentry (Level 3 or 4) is generally required to enter the trade. Practical skills with tools, attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to follow technical plans are essential for this role. 

Trades assistants’ salary

Trades assistants receive annual pay ranging from $60k–$70k. They support skilled tradespeople, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, by preparing work areas, handling tools, and performing basic operational tasks. Trades assistants often work across construction, maintenance, manufacturing, or automotive sites, both indoors and outdoors.

They assist with manual labour, including site clearance, painting, drilling, and other practical tasks. Completion of a relevant certificate or on-the-job training is expected. Physical stamina, practical skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow safety procedures closely are important for this role. 

Explore more about trade salaries in New Zealand 

Plan your next move with the details that matter. With SEEK’s Explore Careers, you can check New Zealand job opportunities, salary expectations, trend data, and what it takes to get hired. 

Source: SEEK data, roles based on average advertised salaries of over $150,000 for job ads listed on SEEK from July 23 to June 24 to July 24 to June 25. A minimum threshold of job ads on SEEK is required for a role to appear in this table.