The training minimum wage can be used when:

• the employee is 20 years old or over, and

• their employment agreement states that they have to do at least 60 credits a year of an industry programme to become qualified in the area they are working in.

The starting-out minimum wage has a number of scenarios:

• 16 or 17 years old and has not worked for their current employer for 6 continuous months. 

• 16 to 19 years old and their employment agreement states that they have to undertake industry training for at least 40 credits a year 

• 18 or 19 years old and:

  • they have been paid one or more specified social security benefits for 6 months or more continuously and

  • they have not worked for one employer for 6 continuous months since they started being paid a benefit.

In most other situations, the adult minimum wage applies - however if you are ever unsure, please reach out to us admin@peopleplus.co.nz