Optometrist vs Physician Assistant salary
In New Zealand, a physician assistant earns about 4% more than a optometrist — $146,243 vs $141,062 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
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Healthcare
Physician Assistant$146,243/yr
- Monthly
- $12,206
- Hourly
- $70
- Range
- $106,746–$194,492
- 10-yr outlook
- +27%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Optometrist | Physician Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $103,004 | $106,746 |
| 25th | $122,004 | $126,495 |
| Median | $141,062 | $146,243 |
| 75th | $164,322 | $170,368 |
| Senior (90th) | $187,641 | $194,492 |
National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or physician assistant earn more in New Zealand?
- A physician assistant earns more, at about $254,000 per year vs $245,000 for a optometrist — roughly 4% ($9,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
- A optometrist typically earns $178,900–$325,900, while a physician assistant earns $185,400–$337,800 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a optometrist averages about $20,400 and a physician assistant about $21,200.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a optometrist earns about $178,900 while a physician assistant earns about $185,400 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a optometrist earns about $325,900 while a physician assistant earns about $337,800 per year.
- Are optometrist and physician assistant 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.