New Zealand is currently facing sobering economic news, with the latest OECD rankings placing the country 35th out of 38 nations for income growth. This stark statistic highlights a troubling trend: New Zealanders are seeing some of the weakest wage increases in the developed world. While this might not shock many given recent economic policies, it signals a pressing need for change.

New Zealand's strategy to curb inflation by deliberately slowing economic growth has worked, but at a cost. Wage stagnation has become a pressing concern, particularly in a high-cost environment where workers are looking for security and growth. Data shows that only six sectors in the country offer median salaries above NZ$100,000: mining, ICT, finance, utilities, public administration, and professional services. At first glance, this points to high-value, skill-based rewards. Yet, not all of these sectors promise long-term security. Mining, for instance, leads the pack in salary but is at the mercy of volatile political and environmental shifts.

As the economy shifts its focus from restraint to recovery, attention must turn to boosting both wages and productivity. Innovation, skilled labour, and investment in research-heavy industries are emerging as the core drivers of sustainable economic strength.

"Make sure you're choosing a path that's going to grow with you"

In a recent Mahi Media discussion, Shannon Barlow, NZ Managing Director at Frog Recruitment, offered an in-depth look at New Zealand’s current economic and employment challenges. Her key message was clear: the country now needs to pivot from restraint toward sustainable wage and productivity growth.

"We were definitely overachievers when it came to engineering a recession to tame inflation. Slowing growth was the plan," Barlow noted. "But now, of course, the focus needs to shift. How do we grow wages in a way that also boosts productivity?"

Barlow pointed out that only six sectors in New Zealand currently provide median salaries above NZ$100,000, including mining, ICT, and finance. However, she cautioned against assuming all high-paying sectors offer long-term security. "Take mining, for example, at the top of the list. That one’s politically volatile and also highly dependent on environmental policy shifts," she said.

Referring to a recent University of Auckland report, Barlow emphasised the need for innovation, skilled people, and robust R&D investment to drive the next phase of economic growth. Sectors such as ICT, energy, and advanced manufacturing were highlighted as offering not only wage progression but also long-term economic resilience.

For job seekers or those considering a career change, Barlow’s message was strategic and forward-looking. "If you're just starting out or thinking about a career pivot, look to the industries that will thrive regardless of political or economic cycles."

She recommended focusing on sectors like energy, health, technology, infrastructure, and professional services, which offer greater adaptability and consistent opportunities.

Expanding further, Barlow underscored the need for both individuals and the government to act decisively. The country’s poor income growth reflects more than just a post-pandemic hangover—it stems from structural inefficiencies and lagging productivity. "We can’t keep relying on outdated models. We need to support the sectors that actually drive growth, not just those with temporary high returns," she said.

Key areas of focus should include increased investment in high-value industries and boosting R&D funding. Strengthening education and training pathways to equip workers with future-ready skills is equally critical. Barlow also mentioned the importance of stronger wage negotiation frameworks and more diversified economic strategies.

"It’s not just about jumping into the highest-paying field," she added. "It’s about finding sectors that are resilient, adaptable, and aligned with long-term economic trends."

According to Barlow, these shifts would not only help individual workers future-proof their careers but also improve the nation’s economic standing. "We need to be strategic about where we channel our energy and investment. The goal isn’t just income growth for its own sake—it’s about creating a sustainable, productive economy where more New Zealanders can thrive."

Strategies to drive economic growth and build a resilient career

A closer look at recent business analysis reveals why New Zealand’s income growth is lagging behind. Experts attribute the lack of significant productivity gains to a combination of policy decisions and structural inefficiencies.

According to the report, New Zealand has had one of the weakest income growth rates globally since the pandemic, reflecting both a slow recovery and poor productivity performance. Weak investment in innovation, limited wage bargaining power, and a heavy reliance on low-productivity sectors have contributed to this trend.



To reverse the trajectory, a few practical steps can be taken:

Increase investment in high-value industries: ICT, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing need support to scale and hire more skilled workers.

Boost R&D funding: A stronger commitment to research can drive innovation and help companies pay more competitive wages.

Reform education and training pipelines: Equipping workers with the right skills ensures they can move into growth sectors more easily.

Support wage negotiation mechanisms: Stronger collective bargaining frameworks can ensure that wage growth keeps pace with productivity gains.

Encourage sector diversification: Reducing dependence on volatile or declining industries can build resilience.