Operates forklifts to move, stack, and load goods in warehouses, factories, and yards. Follows strict safety procedures and keeps accurate stock movements. An essential role in New Zealand's logistics and distribution network. A current forklift (F) endorsement on the driver licence is required, and most employers provide operator training on site. The role is a reliable entry point into logistics, with room to move into stores, dispatch, or team-leading positions. Sites run on rhythm, so punctual, dependable operators are always in demand. Beyond the basics, experience across different machinery types keeps workers employed through seasonal and peak swings.

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Total Remuneration Range

Base salary + bonuses, based on 2 submissions

Minimum Wage
$49,816
Living Wage
$62,192
Median
$58,750
90th Percentile
$59,670
Minimum Wage
$23.95/hr
$49,816/year
1.2×
This role pays 1.2 times the minimum wage
+18%
Living Wage
$29.90/hr
$62,192/year
0.9×
This role pays 0.9 times the living wage
-6%
National Wage Percentile
$58,750
median salary for this role
Top 52.8%
This role's median is higher than 47.2% of all NZ wage/salary earners
1,498,890 earners at or above this salary
Source: IRD Wage & Salary Distributions — March 2026

Common questions about Forklift Operator pay

Based on 2 anonymous submissions

What is the median salary for Forklift Operator in New Zealand?

Across 2 anonymous submissions, the median total salary for a Forklift Operator in New Zealand is $58,750 per year. Total remuneration ranges from about $57,830 (10th percentile) to $59,670 (90th percentile).

How does Forklift Operator pay compare with NZ wage benchmarks?

A full-time median of $58,750 per year compares with the NZ minimum wage of $49,816 per year and the living wage of $62,192 per year.

What does a Forklift Operator earn at each experience level?

Median pay by experience: Junior (0-2 Yrs) $59,000.

Most Common Perks

Based on 2 submissions

Viewing perks for selected submission
  • Free Parking 100%
    • Annual Performance Bonus 100%
      • Remote / Hybrid WFH 0%
        • Flexible Working Hours 0%
          • Health Insurance 0%
            • KiwiSaver Match > 3% 0%

Pay by Experience Level

Median salary progression

Junior (0-2 Yrs)
$59,000

All Submissions (2)

Click a submission to see its perks
$59,900
Auckland 0 - 2 years (Junior) Sep 2026
$57,600
Christchurch / Canterbury 0 - 2 years (Junior) Sep 2026

Salary by Location

Auckland
$59,900 $59,900 $59,900
Christchurch / Canterbury
$57,600 $57,600 $57,600