Capital-gains as ICT pros earn more in Wellington...

If you’re part of the tech sector in Wellington, the great news for employees is you’re likely to earn the most staying put in the capital.

According to the latest Absolute IT Wellington Market Report, Wellington holds the highest median base remuneration within New Zealand at $87,500 – that’s 8.7% above the national median.

Median remuneration for both permanent and contract ICT roles have increased this year, with contract project management seeing a 10% increase since last year, followed closely by business analysis and software development.

“Wellington employers are also offering a median bonus of $7000 - that’s 40% higher than Waikato/BOP and Christchurch and 16% higher than Auckland,” says Absolute IT Director Grant Burley.

Attracting talent and company growth are key goals for Wellington ICT employers this year, with 73% planning to recruit additional staff; a rise of 3% on last year. The main reason cited for the increase in staff is new projects (42%).

These figures compliment Grow Wellington’s regional workforce strategy which puts a heavy focus on growing the ICT industry in Wellington.

Grow Wellington estimates the number of businesses in Wellington’s ICT industry at just over 3300, up from 2300 in 2001 - Wellington has the highest concentration of web and digital-based companies per capita in New Zealand.

Over recent years the Wellington public sector has steadily increased its demand for contractors.

However, we are seeing a shift this year, with 80% of public sector employers planning to recruit permanent staff this year - this is an increase of 16% since 2013. In comparison the private sector is set to employ 10% more contractors compared with 2013.