Occupational Therapist vs Physical Therapist salary
In New Zealand, a physical therapist earns about 4% more than a occupational therapist — $99,607 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
Physical Therapist$99,607/yr
- Monthly
- $8,291
- Hourly
- $48
- Range
- $74,504–$130,295
- 10-yr outlook
- +15%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Occupational Therapist | Physical Therapist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $71,913 | $74,504 |
| 25th | $84,061 | $87,055 |
| Median | $96,152 | $99,607 |
| 75th | $110,949 | $114,922 |
| Senior (90th) | $125,746 | $130,295 |
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 physical therapist earn more in New Zealand?
- A physical therapist earns more, at about $173,000 per year vs $167,000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 4% ($6,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
- A occupational therapist typically earns $124,900–$218,400, while a physical therapist earns $129,400–$226,300 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 physical therapist about $14,400.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a occupational therapist earns about $124,900 while a physical therapist earns about $129,400 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a occupational therapist earns about $218,400 while a physical therapist earns about $226,300 per year.
- Are occupational therapist and physical therapist 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.