For NZ Plumbers & Gasfitters

Plumber and gasfitter jobs in NZ.

Just starting out? Getting into it means an apprenticeship — you earn while you train, no experience needed. Already licensed? Check what you should earn, put your PGDB licence front and centre, land the next job.

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Pay check

What Kiwi plumbers actually earn

Rough 2026 ranges. Gasfitters on supervisor licence and dual-ticket plumber/gas sit at the top.

Apprentice plumber

$22–$28/hr

Rises each year through the apprenticeship.

Certifying plumber

$38–$55/hr

Post-registration, 2–5 years on the tools.

Certifying gasfitter

$45–$60/hr

Plumber + gasfitter dual ticket commands more.

Self-employed charge-out

$90–$140/hr

Take-home after GST, vehicle and tools closer to $55–$85/hr.

Your toolkit

3 tools for NZ plumbers

Plumber CV + cover letter

No experience? No problem. AI writes a CV that leads with your attitude, reliability and any hands-on work — plus tickets like Site Safe or a driver licence if you have them.

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Plumber pay check

Tighter pay band for your licence class and city. Plumber vs gasfitter vs drainlayer vs dual-ticket.

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Plumbing jobs matched to you

Upload your CV — AI pulls the NZ plumbing jobs that fit you, including apprentice and trainee roles that need no experience.

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FAQ

Questions Kiwi plumbers ask

How much do plumbers earn in NZ in 2026?

Apprentices $22–$28/hr, certifying plumbers $38–$55/hr, certifying gasfitters $45–$60/hr. Self-employed charge-out $90–$140/hr, which lands around $55–$85/hr take-home after GST, vehicle and tools. Dual-ticket plumber/gas gets paid more.

Can I get into plumbing with no experience?

Yes. You start as an apprentice or trainee under a certifying plumber — no experience or licence needed to begin. You register with the PGDB as a trainee, earn while you learn, and move up to certifying once qualified. A driver licence and genuine interest matter most to start. See our apprentice pathway.

Is it worth getting a gasfitting endorsement on top of plumbing?

Yes. Dual-ticket plumber/gasfitters earn roughly 15–25% more than plumbers alone and are in very short supply, especially in Auckland and Christchurch. Most certifying plumbers add the gas endorsement within 3–5 years of registration.

What should be on a plumber’s CV in NZ?

One page. PGDB number and licence class up top. Then gas endorsement, drainlayer ticket, Site Safe, confined-space, First Aid, drivers. List jobs and scope (new build, reno, commercial, kitchen/bathroom count). Two referees.

How do I go self-employed as a plumber?

Register your business (NZBN), GST if you’ll turn over >$60K, public-liability insurance ($1m+), and a van and stock. Charge-out rates of $90–$140/hr are standard. Start with a main contractor or two for regular work before going direct to homeowners.

For NZ Employers

Hiring plumbers or gasfitters? Meet the ones who turn up ready.

Every applicant lists their PGDB licence class and endorsements up front, and preps with free AI tools before they apply. Less time filtering, keener plumbers in your inbox.

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