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The highest paying jobs in New Zealand

When embarking on your first career or looking at a career change, there are a lot of factors to consider. What am I passionate about? What do I envision myself doing? And crucially – what will I be paid?

A healthy salary can be important for some, as it allows for stability, the chance to invest in learning new skills and enjoy plenty of hobbies. While others prioritise work enjoyment, choosing lower-paid roles that they consider more personally fulfilling. Some even manage to find the sweet spot – a balance of the two!

Either way, knowing what sort of money you will earn can be really useful for a number of reasons. It can help you decide between two careers that appear equally attractive. It might help you decide if it’s worth relocating for a new role. Or, it could help you with budgeting and planning for the future.

No matter the reason, a good salary is a great motivator for working hard no matter what field you are in. So here are New Zealand’s highest-paid job roles according to the Government Careers Advice, and some of the positions that involve them too!

1. Medical Professionals

The medical sphere is a well paid one – and with good reason. Many doctors train for around a decade to provide life-saving care and treatment to their patients. Among the highest-paid are Anaesthetists, who have an average wage of around $85,000. These specialist doctors are responsible for the delicate work of putting us to sleep for operations, pain management and intensive care work.

If you don’t see yourself tackling years of medical school, there is another route. There are thousands of businesses across the country looking for friendly and professional Medical Receptionists, who earn around $20 – $30 an hour.

Our Medical Reception Certificate is ideal if you have a passion for healthcare and see a long term career in working within medical facilities. A comprehensive guide, specifically designed from the ground up by industry professionals to put you in good stead to develop a strong foundation of this lucrative industry.

2. Legal Professionals

Law is an age-old institution and one that requires just as much rigorous training as medicine. It can take around 7 years to complete all the training needed to approach the bar – which can feel like a lot of time! A hefty salary of up to $125,000 per year helps to make up for that, as well as for the long hours that often come with the job.

Law is one of the most exciting and diverse careers in New Zealand, suited to those with a passion for justice and a strong work ethic. But if 7 years sounds like too much for you, then working as a legal assistant could be a better fit. Perfect for those who want to learn the responsibilities and skills required to support solicitors and barristers in their day to day work.

Our course in Legal Administration is not only suitable for individuals who are looking to work as a legal assistant, but also ideal for those students who are still considering a law degree and want to ascertain if it’s the role for them. Start with this course and who knows? You could find yourself as a lawyer taking home a healthy pay packet too!

3. Finance & IT

The world of technology and finance is always booming. Financial dealers need to keep level headed and engaged whilst they work on buying and selling commodities for profit. They take home an average of $45,000 to $125,000. Meanwhile, an IT worker, who manages crucial technology teams and computer systems and software, earns between $50,000 to $200,000!

These highly skilled careers require leadership and the ability to communicate effectively, with many always seeking ways to improve their personal skills. If you are considering one of these rewarding careers, enrol in a communication course to boost your CV. Designed to positively influence your career prospects, effective communication skills can enhance your life in so many ways. This course will help you master your written, spoken and non-verbal communication, putting you in good stead for a high powered role.

4. Psychiatry

Psychiatrists are also in the medical field, but with a specialisation in the mental health sector. They earn around $72,000 to $178,000 a year, as medically qualified doctors who work in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with disorders such as dementia, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders & more. A similar level of training is required as other medical doctors, as well the emotional resilience to work in challenging situations.

If you find yourself drawn to helping others, but want to build a career supporting the mental and emotional health of patients – as well as physical, counselling could be the perfect career for you. Our Counselling Pathway Certificate is a great place to start your journey.

Specifically designed for students who are looking to explore a career in counselling services, the course is based on the AQF Diploma course material for a counselling degree, so you can be sure you are getting the best possible start to this industry and skillset. The Counselling Pathway Certificate is also ideal for Aged Care workers, Nurses and Life coaches looking to get skills in counselling.

Whatever career you’re considering, whether it’s one of the highest paying jobs in New Zealand or not, it can be a tough decision to make. There are so many factors to consider – pay being just one of many. If you would like some help, then speak to one of our advisors, who can give you a fresh perspective on things and set you on the right path.

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