Head of Design Salary in Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Tauranga is a major port city with strong logistics and agribusiness sectors. Design leadership is in demand. Salaries have increased alongside population growth and higher property costs.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$77,000 to NZ$97,000
Average (per year)
NZ$87,000
Starting roles support design for logistics, agribusiness, and expanding retail.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$97,000 to NZ$125,000
Average (per year)
NZ$111,000
Mid-level designers lead projects in marketing firms or IT startups, drawing on Tauranga's port-driven economy.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$125,000 to NZ$148,000
Average (per year)
NZ$137,000
Experienced professionals manage branding and UX for larger employers or regional tech companies.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$148,000+
Principal heads oversee design direction for major local enterprises, including port operations and tech firms.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
NZ$50 - NZ$60
per hour
Mid-level
NZ$60 - NZ$80
per hour
Senior
NZ$80 - NZ$95
per hour