New Zealand, renowned for its stunning landscape and high quality of life, offers a lucrative career for anesthesiologist professionals. The demand for this profession in New Zealand is high due to its increasing earning potential. In this article, we will discuss the average anesthesiologist’s salary in New Zealand and various factors influencing the compensation of anesthesiologists in the country.
By understanding the salary range, average earnings, and key determinants, you can gain valuable insight into this specialised medical profession in New Zealand. In 2025, anesthesiology isn’t just a high-stakes medical career—it’s one of the most well-compensated roles in the country’s healthcare system. From junior registrars to senior specialists, this article breaks down how much anesthesiologists in New Zealand earn today, what factors influence that paycheck, and how the career outlook is evolving.
This Blog Includes:
- What is the Average Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand?
- Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Experience Level
- Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Education Level
- Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Organisation
- Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Cities
- Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Different Positions
- FAQs
What is the Average Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand?
Anesthesiologists in New Zealand command a substantial salary, with an average annual income of NZD 319,700. This translates to an average monthly earning of NZD 26,641. However, the salary range can vary significantly, with the lowest annual salary at NZD 169,700 (NZD 14,141 per month) and the highest reaching NZD 488,200 (NZD 40,683 per month). This suggests that experience, specialisation, and location all play a role in determining an anesthesiologist’s salary in New Zealand.
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Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Experience Level
Entry-level anesthesiologists typically earn around NZD 193,200 per year. This is a strong starting salary, considering the national average income in New Zealand is around NZD 70,000–80,000, meaning new anesthesiologists earn over 2.5 times the average wage.
With just 2–5 years of experience, salaries jump by 23%, crossing NZD 238,000 annually. Mid-career professionals (5–10 years in) see the biggest leap, with earnings increasing by 42%, averaging NZD 338,300—reflecting their growing independence in surgical procedures.
After a decade, salaries continue to rise but at a slower pace, reaching up to NZD 472,500 for the most seasoned experts (20+ years), which is roughly a 145% increase over an entry-level salary.
Like many other occupations, an anesthesiologist’s compensation is largely determined by experience. Their level of job experience determines the increase in salary range. The average pay according to experience level is added here:
Experience Level | Average Salary Per Year |
0-2 Years | NZD 193,200 |
2-5 Years | NZD 238,200 |
5-10 Years | NZD 338,300 |
10-15 Years | NZD 394,500 |
15-20 Years | NZD 435,700 |
20+ Years | NZD 472,500 |
Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Education Level
MBChB Graduates (medical graduates in early years or non-specialist hospital roles) typically earn between NZD 90,000- NZD 110,000. This is the starting point before beginning formal anesthesiology training.
Postgraduate Diploma holders or Registrars undergoing anesthesiology training earn on average NZD 120,000–260,000, reflecting a 30%–35% salary increase due to clinical experience and limited specialist responsibility. Fellows of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (FANZCA) or those holding equivalent certifications can command NZD 300,000–450,000+ annually, marking a massive 40% to 70% jump in earnings compared to non-specialist counterparts.
The amount you get paid in New Zealand as an anesthesiologist depends in part on your educational background. Their pay usually rises in proportion to their level of education. The average earring based on their educational attainment is added here:
Education Level | Average Salary Per Year |
Diploma | NZD 50,500 |
Bachelor’s program | NZD 90,000 |
Master Program | NZD 122,000 |
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Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Organisation
Public hospital roles are ideal for early-career anesthesiologists building their reputation and training under supervision. Private sector jobs are more rewarding financially, especially for those with experience or niche expertise.
If you’re looking for work as an anesthesiologist in New Zealand, you should also take the organization into consideration. Anesthesiologists can find employment in Australia with some of the top companies listed below.
Organisations | Average Salary Per Year |
Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Canterbury Salaries | NZD 100,000- NZD 150,000 |
CC Medical | NZD 70,000- NZD 120,000 |
Global Medics | NZD 160,00- NZD 200,000 |
JPS Medical Recruitment | NZD 100,000- NZD 290,500 |
St. Vincent’s Hospital | NZD 130,000- NZD 200,000 |
Healthcare Professionals Group | NZD 231,000- NZD 268,000 |
Medipeople Group | NZD 118,000- NZD 225,000 |
Scope-Medical Recruitment | NZD 96,000- NZD 108,000 |
Odyssey Recruitment | NZD 369,000- NZD 436,000 |
Santè Recruitment | NZD 123,000- NZD 386,000 |
Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Cities
The salary of an anesthesiologist may also differ based on their place of employment. Salary levels in metropolitan areas are generally greater than in remote or rural locations. Here is a list of some of the top cities in New Zealand where anesthesiologists can expect to make a good living:
Cities | Average Salary Per Year |
Christchurch | NZD 299,200 |
Auckland | NZD 320,400 |
Wellington | NZD 311,700 |
Christchurch | NZD 200,000 |
Rotorua | NZD 260,300 |
Hamilton | NZD 286,400 |
Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand By Different Positions
By 2025, with increasing demand and a shortage of specialists in rural and specialised care, senior-level roles are seeing growing compensation, especially in private and hybrid public-private contracts.
In New Zealand, anesthesiologists are among the highest-paying medical professionals. This is a summary based on occupations that are comparable:
Positions | Average Salary Per Year |
Psychiatrist | NZD 237,759 |
Physician | NZD 217,365 |
Surgeon | NZD 230,605 |
Obstetrics and Gynecology Physician | NZD 191,775 |
Emergency Medicine Physician | NZD 186,642 |
Infectious Disease Physician | NZD 235,642 |
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FAQs
The ageing and expanding population of New Zealand is driving up demand for anaesthetists by increasing the need for pain management and surgery. new operations requiring anaesthesia, like the removal of stroke clots.
In New Zealand, anaesthesia technician salaries typically range from NZD 90,000 to NZD 100,000 annually.
Anesthesiologists help patients by managing their pain during medical procedures. Given the scope of their work, they are among the medical professionals with the highest salaries.
In Adelaide, Australia, an anesthesiologist assistant makes, on average, AUD 144,887 per year and AUD 70 per hour. An anesthesiologist assistant’s typical pay ranges from AUD 98,668 to AUD 177,197.
This is all about the detailed information on Anesthesiologist Salary in New Zealand. If you are interested in reading more about the medical profession with its high earning potential, follow Leverage Edu and our main page, Jobs Abroad, for the latest updates.
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