Based on 2 submissions across Aotearoa — Full-time Permanent roles only
Installs and repairs drainage and sewerage systems, including pipes, and building foundations. Operates machinery like excavators, reads plans, and complies with council and safety standards. A licensed trade vital to New Zealand construction. Drainlayers must hold a current drainlaying qualification or be working toward their certificate of competence. The licensed nature of the trade means demand stays steady, with solid pathways into running small drainage crews. Much of the work happens early in a project, before structures rise, so careful planning pays off long after the pipes are buried. Relief work and maintenance contracts provide steady flow between new builds.
Base salary + bonuses, based on 2 submissions
Based on 2 anonymous submissions
Across 2 anonymous submissions, the median total salary for a Drainlayer in New Zealand is $95,250 per year. Total remuneration ranges from about $88,250 (10th percentile) to $102,250 (90th percentile).
A full-time median of $95,250 per year compares with the NZ minimum wage of $49,816 per year and the living wage of $62,192 per year.
Median pay by experience: Mid (3-5 Yrs) $84,000, Senior (6-9 Yrs) $100,000.
Based on 2 submissions
Median salary progression