Average retail wages in New Zealand have increased to $30.94 an hour, although the pace of wage growth has slowed, according to the 2026 Retail Wage Guide from Retail NZ.

The report found average hourly pay across the retail sector rose just 1 per cent from a year earlier, down from the 3.4 per cent increase recorded last year.

“Retailers are continuing to manage tight margins and sluggish consumer confidence,” said Retail NZ CEO Carolyn Young.

“While wage growth has slowed compared to previous years, the average retail wage remains well above the minimum wage ($23.95) and living wage ($28.95).”

According to Retail NZ, the sector employs around 222,400 people across 29,505 retail businesses, making it one of the country’s largest employers.

The report also found that many retailers are offering additional benefits to attract and retain employees.

More than half provide staff discounts and opportunities for upskilling, while 43 per cent offer sales commissions or incentives. Around one in five employees contribute to their KiwiSaver accounts above the minimum required level.

“These sorts of perks can be important for staff retention and job satisfaction,” Young concluded.

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