Pilot Salary at Air New Zealand
By Renzo, CPL · Updated March 2026
Repeatedly voted world's best airline. Living in New Zealand offers an unmatched quality of life for pilots and their families.
Salary Breakdown
| Position | Year 1 | Year 5 | Year 10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Officer | NZ$95,000 | NZ$130,000 | NZ$160,000 |
| Captain | NZ$210,000 | NZ$275,000 | NZ$340,000 |
Salary Progression
First Officer
Captain
Benefits & Perks
Fleet Types
2 pilot bases worldwide
Requirements & Career
Minimum Flight Hours
2,500
Type Rating Provided
Yes
Career Progression
Slow
Unionized
Yes
Quality of Life Rating
Based on schedule flexibility, base locations, commutability, travel benefits, and overall pilot satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Air New Zealand pilot make?
A First Officer at Air New Zealand earns NZ$95,000 in year 1, rising to NZ$160,000 by year 10. Captains earn NZ$210,000 initially, reaching NZ$340,000 at year 10.
Is Air New Zealand hiring pilots in 2026?
Yes, Air New Zealand is actively hiring pilots in 2026. Minimum flight hours required: 2,500.
What are the minimum hours to fly for Air New Zealand?
Air New Zealand requires a minimum of 2,500 total flight hours. Type rating training is provided by the airline.
Does Air New Zealand provide type rating training?
Yes, Air New Zealand provides type rating training for new hires on their fleet types: A320, A321neo, B777, B787.
What is the career progression like at Air New Zealand?
Career progression at Air New Zealand is rated as "Slow". Pilots are unionized, which provides structured seniority-based advancement. Quality of life is rated 5/5.
Compare With Other Asia-Pacific Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Captain: S$400,000
Cathay Pacific
Captain: HK$2,000,000
Qantas Airways
Captain: A$380,000
All Nippon Airways (ANA)
Captain: ¥25,000,000
Japan Airlines
Captain: ¥25,000,000
Korean Air
Captain: ₩200,000,000
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