New Zealand’s plans to increase its minimum wage follows a trend seen across Asia-Pacific as governments look to boost the pockets of workers hit hard by the covid-19 pandemic. However, Wellington’s move has been criticised by employers arguing that the increase will add further burden to already struggling businesses.

The minimum wage is set to rise by 6% from NZ$20.00 to NZ$21.20 per hour from 1 April 2022. An employee working a 40-hour week will therefore earn an extra NZ$48 a week, and almost NZ$2,500 more a year.