Optometrist vs Psychiatrist salary
In New Zealand, a psychiatrist earns about 96% more than a optometrist — $275,790 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
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
| Percentile | Optometrist | Psychiatrist |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $103,004 | $188,907 |
| 25th | $122,004 | $232,377 |
| Median | $141,062 | $275,790 |
| 75th | $164,322 | $328,875 |
| Senior (90th) | $187,641 | $381,960 |
National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or psychiatrist earn more in New Zealand?
- A psychiatrist earns more, at about $479,000 per year vs $245,000 for a optometrist — roughly 96% ($234,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
- A optometrist typically earns $178,900–$325,900, 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 optometrist averages about $20,400 and a psychiatrist about $39,900.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a optometrist earns about $178,900 while a psychiatrist earns about $328,100 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a optometrist earns about $325,900 while a psychiatrist earns about $663,400 per year.
- Are optometrist 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.