Pay by Role
New Zealand · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Systems Administrator salary

In New Zealand, a backend developer earns about 32% more than a systems administrator $117,455 vs $88,667 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is NZD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Pays more
Technology
Backend Developer
$117,455/yr
Monthly
$9,788
Hourly
$56
Range
$75,194$169,159
10-yr outlook
+16%
Technology
Systems Administrator
$88,667/yr
Monthly
$7,370
Hourly
$43
Range
$61,549$121,831
10-yr outlook
+4%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperSystems Administrator
Entry (10th)$75,194$61,549
25th$96,325$75,079
Median$117,455$88,667
75th$143,307$105,249
Senior (90th)$169,159$121,831

National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or systems administrator earn more in New Zealand?
A backend developer earns more, at about $204,000 per year vs $154,000 for a systems administrator — roughly 32% ($50,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
A backend developer typically earns $130,600–$293,800, while a systems administrator earns $106,900–$211,600 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about $17,000 and a systems administrator about $12,800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a backend developer earns about $130,600 while a systems administrator earns about $106,900 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a backend developer earns about $293,800 while a systems administrator earns about $211,600 per year.
Are backend developer and systems administrator similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.