15 Apr 2013

Farmer worker incomes higher than average

9:34 am on 15 April 2013

Federated Farmers hopes a new survey showing farm workers earn on average $5000 more than the typical New Zealand wage earner will attract more people to the sector.

The Federated Farmers/Rabobank farm employee remuneration survey canvassed nearly 4000 farm jobs and found the average salary was just over $46,000, which rose to almost $50,000, when non-wage benefits were taken into account.

Federated Farmers said the sector sometimes struggles to get all its positions filled with skilled people.

Employment spokesperson Katie Milne said the pay packet makes the rural sector an attractive career option and training is available for those wanting to work in the industry.