Salary
Get the reward you deserve
Careers in the Air Force are well-rewarded, as well as being diverse and exciting. As you become more experienced and move up through the ranks, gaining additional skills and qualifications, you’ll see your salary rise accordingly.
Other extras
When comparing your salary to a civilian career, it is worth remembering that there are many additional benefits in the Air Force that will make your money go further:
- Free medical and dental care for work related purposes.
- Subsidised hire equipment from base Welfare.
- Subsidised food when eating in the base mess.
- Superannuation, currently up to 4% employer contribution toward Kiwisaver.
- Sponsored tertiary study programmes at all levels.
Your pay
Airmen and airwomen
Officers
Below is an indicative guide to remuneration within NZDF. Remuneration can vary according to rank and trade.
| RANK | SALARY INDICATION PER ANNUM |
| Recruit | $39,781 |
| Aircraftman | $47,224 - $52,925 |
| Leading Aircraftman | $51,180 - $64,106 |
| Corporal | $57,122 - $78,171 |
| Sergeant | $64,056 - $89,908 |
| Flight Sergeant | $72,897 - $104,881 |
| Warrant Officer | $82,820 - $118,405 |
Figures based on TR table Effective 1 July 2017.
Below is an indicative guide to remuneration within NZDF. Remuneration can vary according to rank and trade.
| RANK | SALARY INDICATION PER ANNUM |
| Officer Cadet | $39,781 |
| Officer Cadet - Pilot Trainees | $39,764 - $42,614 |
| Pilot Officer (Under Training) | $47,224 - $50,074 |
| Pilot Officer | $59,604 - $68,956 |
| Flying Officer | $68,143 - $89,587 |
| Flight Lieutenant | $90,933 - $127,279 |
| Squadron Leader | $107,445 - $152,578 |
Figures based on TR table Effective 1 July 2017.
Military Factor
On top of your basic salary you can expect something called Military Factor. This provides you with significant extra financial rewards because of the commitment you’ve made to serve your country – a commitment that asks you to play your part in situations and environments that are unique to military life, such as combat and overseas operations.
Free medical and dental care for work related purposes
Subsidised hire equipment
Subsidised food when eating in the camp mess
Superannuation, currently up to 4% employer contribution toward KiwiSaver
Sponsored tertiary study programmes at all levels
Give your passion purpose
Whatever your passion in life, there's a role in the Air Force that will give it purpose.