Office and administration roles vary widely depending on the scope of the position, the level of responsibility, and how closely the role sits with the day-to-day running of the business.
Over time, these roles often evolve, particularly in smaller organisations, where responsibilities can extend beyond traditional administration into coordination, systems, and operational support.
Based on what we’re seeing in the market for 2026, here is a practical snapshot of salary levels across common office and administration roles.
These figures are based on our experience working with New Zealand employers and candidates, supported by current advertised roles.
Office Manager / Administration Manager
Office Manager and Administration Manager roles often sit at the centre of a business, with responsibility for keeping operations running smoothly. In smaller organisations, these roles can be broad and hands-on, while in larger businesses, they may focus more on coordination and team oversight.
Base salaries typically range from $70,000 – $90,000, with some roles exceeding this where there is wider responsibility.
Higher salaries are generally linked to:
- People management
- Financial or reporting responsibilities
- Oversight of systems, processes or suppliers
Practice Manager (Professional Services / Healthcare)
Practice Manager roles tend to combine operational responsibility with client or patient-facing coordination. These roles often require a balance of organisation, communication, and commercial awareness.
Base salaries typically range from $75,000 – $100,000+, depending on the size and structure of the business.
Roles at the upper end of the range usually include:
- Staff leadership
- Financial oversight (billing, budgets)
- Responsibility for performance or growth
Senior Administrator / Team Administrator
Senior administration roles often support managers or teams and include coordination, reporting, and process support.
Base salaries typically sit between $60,000 – $80,000.
Salaries tend to be higher where:
- The role supports senior stakeholders
- There is a strong coordination or organisational component
- Industry experience is beneficial
Office Administrator / Administration Officer
These roles form the backbone of many businesses, providing day-to-day administrative support, coordination, and customer interaction.
Base salaries typically range from $55,000 – $70,000.
Entry-level roles tend to sit at the lower end of the range, with more experienced administrators moving into the mid to upper $60,000s, depending on capability and responsibility.
Junior Administrator / Office Assistant
Junior administration roles are often an entry point into office-based work, supporting a range of administrative tasks.
Base salaries typically range from $50,000 – $60,000.
Progression can be relatively quick where individuals develop confidence, systems knowledge, and communication skills.
Part-Time and Flexible Roles
Many office and administration roles are offered on a part-time basis, particularly in smaller businesses or where the role supports a wider team.
In most cases, salaries are simply pro-rated based on hours worked, although there can be some variation depending on the level of responsibility and how the role is structured.
What Influences Salary Levels?
Several factors affect where a role sits within these ranges:
- Scope of the role: Broader roles with more responsibility typically attract higher salaries
- Level of autonomy: Roles requiring initiative and decision-making tend to sit higher
- People responsibility: Managing staff or coordinating others increases value
- Industry: Some sectors place a higher premium on experience or knowledge
- Complexity of the business: Larger or more structured environments often pay more
Trends in 2026
Across office and administration roles, salary movement has been relatively measured.
Employers are placing increasing value on individuals who can:
- work independently
- manage competing priorities
- communicate effectively across teams
There is also a noticeable difference between roles that are focused purely on administrative tasks and those that involve coordination, ownership, or supporting the wider business. These broader roles tend to attract higher salaries.
The Takeaway
Office and administration roles cover a wide spectrum, and salary levels reflect the scope and expectations of each position.
A clear definition of the role, including where responsibility sits and how the role supports the wider business, is important in attracting the right candidates at the right level.
If you would like guidance on salary levels for a specific role or are reviewing how a position is structured within your business, please feel free to get in touch. We’re always happy to help.
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Salary Guidance – Accounting Roles
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