The $29.90 rate is set independently by the Family Centre Social Policy Unit and is adopted by employers that choose to become accredited through the Living Wage Movement Aotearoa New Zealand (LWMANZ).
LWMANZ chairperson Muriel Tunoho said employees will be celebrating the new Living Wage rate.
“Right now, in a cost of living crisis that seems to be getting worse every day, the Living Wage is needed more than ever,” Tunoho said in a statement.
“With these new fuel spikes low-paid workers are struggling to keep their heads above water and to cover the absolute basics like rent, power, and kai. The Living Wage offers real hope and relief to workers and their whānau.”
Some organisations that are accredited as Living Wage Employers include agencies in the state sector, local and regional government, as well as major banks and a range of small and large private businesses.