Garbage Truck Driver salary in New Zealand

Average Yearly Salary of Garbage Truck Driver in New Zealand is approximately 75,314 NZD (37,720 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Garbage Truck Driver do?

A garbage truck driver is responsible for the collection and disposal of waste materials from residential, commercial, and industrial areas. They operate specialized trucks equipped with hydraulic lifts to pick up and empty trash containers into the truck's compactor. Garbage truck drivers follow assigned routes, ensuring timely and efficient waste collection while adhering to safety regulations. They may also assist in sorting and recycling materials at designated facilities. This occupation requires physical stamina as it entails heavy lifting and repetitive tasks. Attention to detail is essential to ensure accurate recording of collected waste and adherence to schedule. Good communication skills are necessary for interacting with colleagues and the public. The job of a garbage truck driver involves working outdoors in various weather conditions.

Skills: garbage truck driver, waste management, sanitation, recycling, heavy equipment operator, truck driver
Job industry: Waste management

How much does Garbage Truck Driver make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Garbage Truck Driver a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Garbage Truck Driver is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Garbage Truck Driver?

High salary for Garbage Truck Driver would be somewhere between 82,845 NZD and 109,205 NZD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Garbage Truck Driver in New Zealand?

Living in New Zealand the approximate monthly expenses are: 1,938 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 75,314 NZD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 6,276 NZD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,448 NZD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 36 NZD per hour
By working as Garbage Truck Driver a person can save up to 1,205 USD per month or 14,459 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in New Zealand, see costs of living in New Zealand.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia, Tonga, Samoa.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Garbage Truck Driver

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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