Head of Design Salary in Southland, New Zealand
Southland's design sector offers a median of NZ$105,000 for Head of Design roles. Housing costs are discussed.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$82,000 to NZ$95,000
Average (per year)
NZ$88,500
Starting roles appear in local agencies or public-sector offices with limited headcount.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$95,000 to NZ$115,000
Average (per year)
NZ$105,000
Mid-level Heads of Design work in regional councils, manufacturing, or healthcare organizations.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$115,000 to NZ$135,000
Average (per year)
NZ$125,000
Senior roles involve managing multi-disciplinary teams for Southland's larger employers.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
NZ$135,000+
Principal-level salaries are higher in government or large agribusiness.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
NZ$55 - NZ$75
per hour
Mid-level
NZ$75 - NZ$95
per hour
Senior
NZ$95 - NZ$120
per hour
Compared with the national median of around NZ$120,000, Southland's pay sits modestly lower, reflecting its cost of living.