Pay by Role
New Zealand · Salary comparison

Physical Therapist vs Psychiatrist salary

In New Zealand, a psychiatrist earns about 177% more than a physical therapist $275,790 vs $99,607 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
Physical Therapist
$99,607/yr
Monthly
$8,291
Hourly
$48
Range
$74,504$130,295
10-yr outlook
+15%
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

PercentilePhysical TherapistPsychiatrist
Entry (10th)$74,504$188,907
25th$87,055$232,377
Median$99,607$275,790
75th$114,922$328,875
Senior (90th)$130,295$381,960

National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Healthcare comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a physical therapist or psychiatrist earn more in New Zealand?
A psychiatrist earns more, at about $479,000 per year vs $173,000 for a physical therapist — roughly 177% ($306,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
A physical therapist typically earns $129,400–$226,300, 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 physical therapist averages about $14,400 and a psychiatrist about $39,900.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a physical therapist earns about $129,400 while a psychiatrist earns about $328,100 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a physical therapist earns about $226,300 while a psychiatrist earns about $663,400 per year.
Are physical 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.