MP Salaries FAQ
Frequently asked questions about New Zealand MP pay
$213,413
182
1960-2015
$213M
1How much do New Zealand MPs earn?
As of 2015, the base salary for a New Zealand Member of Parliament is approximately $213,413 per year. However, salaries vary based on roles - Ministers, the Prime Minister, and party leaders receive higher salaries.
2What is the Prime Minister of New Zealand's salary?
The Prime Minister of New Zealand earns significantly more than a regular MP, typically around $470,000 per year. This makes the PM the highest-paid parliamentarian in New Zealand. Check our MP Salaries insights page for the current exact figure.
3How are MP salaries determined in New Zealand?
MP salaries in New Zealand are set by the Remuneration Authority, an independent body established under the Remuneration Authority Act 1977. The Authority considers factors including the responsibilities of the role, comparable positions in the private and public sectors, and the need to attract and retain skilled people to Parliament.
4Do MPs get additional allowances on top of their salary?
Yes, MPs receive various allowances and entitlements beyond their base salary. These include accommodation allowances (especially for MPs based outside Wellington), travel allowances for constituency work, and expense budgets for running their electorate offices. These are disclosed quarterly on the Parliament website.
5How much do Ministers earn compared to regular MPs?
Ministers earn more than regular MPs due to their additional responsibilities. A Cabinet Minister typically earns around $280,000-$300,000 per year, while Ministers outside Cabinet earn around $230,000-$260,000. These figures are on top of any electorate MP responsibilities.
6What is the average MP salary in New Zealand?
Based on our data covering 182 MPs from 1960 to 2015, the average MP salary is $213,413 per year. This includes all MPs from ordinary backbenchers to the Prime Minister.
7How have MP salaries changed over time?
MP salaries have generally increased over time, adjusted by the Remuneration Authority. Our database tracks 182 MPs with total career earnings of $213,413,231 over 56 years. You can explore historical trends on our MP Salaries insights page.
8Do party leaders earn more than regular MPs?
Yes, party leaders receive additional remuneration for their leadership responsibilities. The Leader of the Opposition, minor party leaders, and deputy leaders all receive salary loadings above the base MP salary.
9Where can I find individual MP salary information?
PublicData.co.nz provides individual salary data for all New Zealand MPs. Visit our MPs directory to see each MP's current and historical salary, role history, and career earnings. We source this data from the Remuneration Authority's determinations.
10How does NZ MP pay compare to other countries?
New Zealand MP salaries are generally comparable to other Westminster parliamentary democracies. While lower than some countries like Australia and the UK, they are set at levels intended to attract qualified candidates while respecting taxpayer money.
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Data sourced from the Remuneration Authority. Last updated: 2015.