Pay by Role
New Zealand · Salary comparison

Occupational Therapist vs Pharmacist salary

In New Zealand, a pharmacist earns about 7% more than a occupational therapist $103,061 vs $96,152 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

Healthcare
Occupational Therapist
$96,152/yr
Monthly
$8,003
Hourly
$46
Range
$71,913$125,746
10-yr outlook
+12%
Pays more
Healthcare
Pharmacist
$103,061/yr
Monthly
$8,579
Hourly
$50
Range
$79,858$131,389
10-yr outlook
+3%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOccupational TherapistPharmacist
Entry (10th)$71,913$79,858
25th$84,061$91,489
Median$96,152$103,061
75th$110,949$117,225
Senior (90th)$125,746$131,389

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

More Healthcare comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a occupational therapist or pharmacist earn more in New Zealand?
A pharmacist earns more, at about $179,000 per year vs $167,000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 7% ($12,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
A occupational therapist typically earns $124,900–$218,400, while a pharmacist earns $138,700–$228,200 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
On a monthly basis before tax, a occupational therapist averages about $13,900 and a pharmacist about $14,900.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a occupational therapist earns about $124,900 while a pharmacist earns about $138,700 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a occupational therapist earns about $218,400 while a pharmacist earns about $228,200 per year.
Are occupational therapist and pharmacist similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Healthcare 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.