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How much is paid parental leave in New Zealand per week?

From 1 July 2026, the most you can get is NZ$811.05 a week before tax. For employees, the amount is the higher of your 'ordinary weekly pay' and your 'average weekly income', up to that maximum. Self-employed people get at least NZ$239.50 a week. Payments are taxed like wages, and the amount does not double for twins.

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From the guide “Paid Parental Leave”Last verified Official pages checked daily

Official figures

Maximum per week (before tax)
NZ$811.051
Minimum per week for self-employed people
NZ$239.50 (equal to 10 hours a week at the adult minimum wage)1
How long payments last
26 weeks (6 months) in a row. Payments stop if you go back to work early.1
Work hours needed
In the 52 weeks before your baby's due date (or before you became the primary carer), you worked an average of at least 10 hours a week in any 26 of those weeks.1
Residence status
You do not need to be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident. Your work must have a 'sufficient connection' to New Zealand.1

Official sources

  1. Parental leave paymentsEmployment New Zealand (MBIE) · employment.govt.nz
  2. When you can apply for paid parental leave paymentsInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
  3. Apply for paid parental leaveInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
  4. Partner's leaveEmployment New Zealand (MBIE) · employment.govt.nz

Read the full guide: Paid Parental Leave →

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Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.

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