Living wage put at $20.20 an hour
Advocates for a living wage have put the figure for 2017 at $20.20 an hour.
The voluntary rate, which Living Wage Aotearoa New Zealand says comes into effect on July 1, is an increase of 40c on 2016.
It compares with the minimum wage of $15.25 set by the government.
The living wage is defined as income necessary to provide workers and their families with the basic necessities of life.
National convenor Annie Newman says it has been another successful year for the movement as the living wage is increasingly seen as the acceptable standard.
She says there has been a lift of one third in the number of businesses becoming accredited as living wage employers.
"Sixty-four employers now ensure all workers, including their contracted staff, are paid enough money to live with dignity," she said.
"It shows you can thrive as a business and pay your workers a decent wage in New Zealand."
– With NZN
