Salary
The right reward
Careers in the Army 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.
Your pay
Soldiers
Officers
Specialist 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 |
| Private | $47,224 - $53,875 |
| Lance Corporal | $55,446 - $65,306 |
| Corporal | $60,845 - $78,171 |
| Sergeant | $68,391 - $89,908 |
| Staff Sergeant | $76,308 - $104,881 |
| Warrant Officer | $86,814 - $111,794 |
Figures based on TR table Effective 1 July 2018.
Below is an indicative guide to remuneration within NZDF. Remuneration can vary according to rank and trade.
| RANK | SALARY INDICATION PER ANNUM |
| Officer Cadet (During IOT) | $39,781 |
| Officer Cadet (While at NZCC) | $40,714 - $44,514 |
| Second Lieutenant* | $59,604 - $64,568 |
| Lieutenant | $71,274 - $84,833 |
| Captain | $86,814 - $103,964 |
| Major | $97,506 - $122,006 |
*An Officer who has graduated from Officer Cadet School.
Figures based on TR table Effective 1 July 2018.
Remuneration for Specialist Officers will vary significantly based on your specialty trade and level of experience. For more information contact 0800 1FORCE.
Making your money go further
When comparing your salary to a civilian career, it is worth remembering that there are many additional benefits in the Army that will make your money go further.
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 Army that will give it purpose.