New Zealand’s retail wages have seen a modest increase this year despite subdued sales growth in the sector, data from RetailNZ shows.

According to Retail NZ’s latest Wages Guide, average retail wage rose 3 per cent year-on-year to $30.59 per hour.

The increase aligns with the 2.8 per cent average wage growth last year, but comes amid sluggish revenue growth across the sector.

“Retailers are continuing to battle low consumer confidence and slow sales. But wages are increasing at a rate faster than growth in revenue and it’s pleasing that the average wage remains well above both the minimum wage of $23.50 and the living wage of $27.80,” said Retail NZ CEO Carolyn Young.

The report highlights that large retailers pay higher wages than smaller businesses operating from only one or two stores.

About 90 per cent of employers provide additional perks, with 56 per cent offering in-store discounts or subsidised food and clothing, and 45 per cent offering flexible working arrangements.

The 2025 Wages Guide covers 27 roles, ranging from frontline sales assistants and delivery drivers to back-office roles in finance, digital, logistics and store management.