Pay by Role
New Zealand · Salary comparison

Occupational Therapist vs Psychiatrist salary

In New Zealand, a psychiatrist earns about 187% more than a occupational therapist $275,790 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
Psychiatrist
$275,790/yr
Monthly
$22,973
Hourly
$132
Range
$188,907$381,960
10-yr outlook
+8%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileOccupational TherapistPsychiatrist
Entry (10th)$71,913$188,907
25th$84,061$232,377
Median$96,152$275,790
75th$110,949$328,875
Senior (90th)$125,746$381,960

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 psychiatrist earn more in New Zealand?
A psychiatrist earns more, at about $479,000 per year vs $167,000 for a occupational therapist — roughly 187% ($312,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
A occupational therapist typically earns $124,900–$218,400, while a psychiatrist earns $328,100–$663,400 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 psychiatrist about $39,900.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a occupational therapist earns about $124,900 while a psychiatrist earns about $328,100 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a occupational therapist earns about $218,400 while a psychiatrist earns about $663,400 per year.
Are occupational therapist and psychiatrist 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.