Income and highest qualification
Median income and qualification
The level of income an individual receives is closely related to their level of educational qualification. Median annual personal incomes in 2006 were:
- Highest for those whose highest qualification was a doctorate degree ($69,900 per year).
- Lowest for those with no qualifications ($16,900 per year).
Median income means half receive more, and half receive less, than this amount.

Income differences for men and women with bachelors degrees or higher
Of those with a bachelors degree or higher, more men than women received an income of more than $50,000:
- 53 percent of men received over $50,000 a year.
- 30 percent of women received over $50,000 a year.
Note: In the 2006 Census, total personal income information was collected for people aged 15 years and over, who usually lived in New Zealand. It relates to the 12 months ending 31 March, and includes income from all sources.