Article

Cost of Hiring a Nanny in New Zealand

By Mark Hudson · 20 July, 2021
Cost of Hiring a Nanny in New Zealand

What to Budget for When Hiring a Nanny in New Zealand

Employing a nanny may be the ideal solution for your child care needs but it also comes at a cost. It’s only sensible to factor in all the financial implications to your budget. 

Hiring a nanny in New Zealand comes with certain responsibilities and obligations. Read on and arm yourself with the knowledge you need to ensure you fully understand the costs connected to your nanny payroll. 

1. Agree On the Working Arrangement That Will Best Suit Your Family
You should work out the number of hours you need a nanny and on which particular days of the week. If you are looking for childcare at fixed times, then a nanny who doesn’t live with you could be the best option. 

When your working routine is more irregular, things will get tricky if the hours you’ve agreed for nanny cover are set in stone. In these cases, a live-in nanny or au pair might be the more appropriate solution.

It could end up working out cheaper too. This is because you will have to provide accommodation in the form of a private bedroom and access to a bathroom. You can offset the cost of all this against the wage you’ll be paying your nanny. 

2. Regional Variations of Nanny Costs in New Zealand
Where you live in New Zealand will have an impact on the salary you are likely to have to pay your nanny. Going rates are higher in Auckland than they are in Christchurch, for example. You can find more details about this here

Experience and qualifications will also play in part in the rates of pay you should offer. You may be looking for a nanny with a background in specific child needs or one who is able to provide a little extra tutoring. 

3. Understanding Your Legal Obligations
Hiring a nanny in New Zealand would usually create an employer/employee relationship. With that comes certain obligations that you will have to meet. You will be responsible for:

  • Paying your nanny’s income tax
  • Making KiwiSaver contributions, if your nanny is a KiwiSaver member
  • Paying annual leave, if applicable
  • Paying for sick leave  
  • Making superannuation or pension contributions
You can find out more here about these and other related nanny costs in New Zealand. 

4. Government Help with Childcare in New Zealand
Whether you or your family can get help with the cost of childcare will depend on how much you earn and the age of your children. 

You may also be able to save money by sharing a nanny with another family. This can be useful if you only need a few hours of childcare each week. You should bear in mind that you will still have legal obligations as a separate employer.

You should also ensure you have sufficient employers’ liability insurance. This will protect you in the unlikely event that you ever incur legal costs.

5. Agree Your Nanny’s Salary in Gross Terms
You should always be sure to agree to nanny costs in gross rather than net salary amounts. By doing this you know that you have everything factored in. 

If you were to simply agree to a net salary, all the unseen costs like taxes and superannuation payments would remain hidden. This would give you an inaccurate bottom-line cost.

Remember to factor in the expenses your nanny is likely to incur while they look after your children. These nanny costs would include things like activities, days out and meals at cafes or restaurants. 

Let Us Take the Strain

We’re there to take on all your nanny payroll needs. That means you can relax knowing that all the admin has been properly taken care of and in line with your legal obligations. 

Contact us now. We’d love it too if you could give us a like over on our Facebook page

By Mark Hudson · 28 May, 2021

How Much Does a Nanny Cost in New Zealand?

The Cost of Hiring a Nanny in New Zealand If you’re thinking about hiring a nanny, there are a few things to consider before you begin the hiring process.  In this article, we’ll break down the cost for nannies in different regions of New Zealand. We’ll also be sharing our insights into other things you should consider when hiring a nanny.&
Read more...
By Mark Hudson · 12 August, 2021

How to Nanny Share in New Zealand

Hiring a nanny but struggling with the cost? A nanny share might be the perfect solution. Split costs with another family, enjoy social benefits for the kids, and keep things flexible. Here's everything you need to know about how nanny sharing works in New Zealand.
Read more...
By Mark Hudson · 30 September, 2024

Creative Arts and Crafts Ideas to Keep Kids Engaged on Rainy Days

Rainy days don't have to mean boredom! In this blog, we share some fun, easy, and creative arts and crafts ideas to keep kids engaged indoors. From paper plate animals to homemade playdough, these low-cost activities will spark creativity, develop fine motor skills, and create lasting memories on any gloomy day!
Read more...
By Mark Hudson · 28 August, 2021

10 Easy Ways to Entertain Kids during Lockdown

Lockdown with kids? Keep them busy and inspired with our top 10 creative, low-cost activities—plus tips for managing routines and making the most of family time. From building dens to baking cookies, we’ve got your back.
Read more...
By Mark Hudson · 07 July, 2021

Employing a Nanny in New Zealand

Hiring a nanny in New Zealand isn’t just about finding the right person - it also means getting payroll, tax, and legal obligations right. This step-by-step guide shows Kiwi families how to employ a nanny correctly, avoid IRD penalties, and stay compliant from day one.
Read more...