Minimum wage policies ahead of 2026 election

The story so far

ACT promised in mid-September 2026 to freeze the minimum wage for three years. NZ First then pledged to raise the minimum wage by at least the rate of inflation each year in the next term, and to make Working for Families in-work tax credits permanent.^{10 Oct} In a debate, Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins both initially appeared to agree to lift the minimum wage by the rate of inflation.^{15 Oct} Luxon later walked that back, saying he had only agreed to take inflation into account.^{15 Oct}

Latest

The Green Party has pledged to scrap the apprentice training wage, currently $19.16 an hour, and pay apprentices the full $23.95 minimum wage.^{17 Oct} The Greens also proposed $2,000 equipment grants, and the Council of Trade Unions welcomed the plan but called for further investment.^{17 Oct}

Key moments

1. 10 OctNZ First pledges inflation-matching minimum wage rises and permanent in-work tax credits.
2. 15 OctLuxon walks back his debate agreement on inflation-linked minimum wage increases.
3. 17 OctGreens propose scrapping the apprentice training wage and adding equipment grants.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.