Optometrist vs Registered Nurse salary
In New Zealand, a optometrist earns about 51% more than a registered nurse — $141,062 vs $93,273 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
Optometrist$141,062/yr
- Monthly
- $11,746
- Hourly
- $68
- Range
- $103,004–$187,641
- 10-yr outlook
- +9%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Optometrist | Registered Nurse |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $103,004 | $68,113 |
| 25th | $122,004 | $80,664 |
| Median | $141,062 | $93,273 |
| 75th | $164,322 | $108,646 |
| Senior (90th) | $187,641 | $124,077 |
National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or registered nurse earn more in New Zealand?
- A optometrist earns more, at about $245,000 per year vs $162,000 for a registered nurse — roughly 51% ($83,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
- A optometrist typically earns $178,900–$325,900, while a registered nurse earns $118,300–$215,500 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 registered nurse about $13,500.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a optometrist earns about $178,900 while a registered nurse earns about $118,300 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a optometrist earns about $325,900 while a registered nurse earns about $215,500 per year.
- Are optometrist and registered nurse 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.