Salary of a Room Attendant in New Zealand

In New Zealand, room attendants are an essential part of the hospitality industry. Many of these dedicated workers are Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who have left their homeland to seek employment opportunities abroad. This article takes a closer look at the salary and conditions of room attendants in New Zealand, shedding light on the financial aspects of their overseas employment.

For OFWs in New Zealand, being a room attendant means more than just making beds and ensuring clean rooms; it’s about supporting their families back home and building a future. In this article, we’ll explore the income levels and challenges faced by OFW room attendants, offering insights into their vital role in the country’s tourism sector and the sacrifices they make for their loved ones.


how much room attendants earn in new zealand
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences shared by the OFW in the video below. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.

The Life of OFW Room Attendants in New Zealand

The insights shared in this article are drawn from an informative YouTube video created by the channel ‘Jhing NZ Journey.’ In the video, the vlogger engages in a candid conversation with her co-OFW guest, talking about the salaries of room attendants in New Zealand and offering valuable insights into the cost of living in the country. To learn more, watch the entire video by following the link below:

In New Zealand, the hospitality industry thrives on the dedication and hard work of room attendants, and a significant portion of this workforce comprises Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). These individuals play a crucial role in ensuring that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay in hotels, motels, and resorts across the country. The responsibilities of a room attendant go far beyond just making beds and replenishing toiletries. Their meticulous attention to detail is essential in creating a clean, welcoming, and relaxing atmosphere for guests.

  1. Room Preparation: Room attendants are responsible for preparing guest rooms before check-in. This includes making beds with fresh linens, cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, and ensuring that all amenities are in place.
  2. Cleaning and Maintenance: During a guest’s stay, room attendants perform daily cleaning and maintenance tasks. They vacuum carpets, dust surfaces, restock towels and toiletries, and ensure that the room is tidy and inviting.
  3. Guest Interaction: Room attendants often serve as a friendly point of contact for guests. They respond to special requests, provide extra amenities when needed, and ensure that any concerns or issues are promptly addressed.
  4. Reporting: They also play a crucial role in reporting any maintenance or repair needs in guest rooms to ensure that they are promptly fixed, maintaining the overall quality of the establishment.
  5. Teamwork: Room attendants typically work as part of a larger team in the housekeeping department, collaborating with colleagues to ensure that all rooms are cleaned efficiently and in a timely manner.

For many OFWs, working as room attendants in New Zealand offers a stable source of income that supports their families back in the Philippines. While the role may appear routine, it requires meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to providing exceptional service. OFWs in this field take pride in their work, knowing that they contribute significantly to the positive experience of tourists and travelers exploring the natural beauty and vibrant culture of New Zealand.

Salary Structure of Room Attendants in New Zealand

  • Hourly Payment Structure:
    • Room attendants in New Zealand are compensated on an hourly basis.
    • If they clock out from work, they are not required to perform additional tasks.
    • Even minutes worked beyond the hour, such as 5.15 or 5.16, are paid, ensuring precise wage calculations.
  • Salary Frequency:
    • Room attendants typically receive their salaries every two weeks.
    • The standard payment for this interval is approximately 1700 New Zealand dollars.
    • After tax deductions and currency conversion at a rate of around 33.7, this translates to approximately 59,000 Philippine pesos.
  • Gross vs. Net Income:
    • Gross income before tax deductions is approximately 2100 NZD.
    • Payslips, as shown in the vlog, provide a detailed breakdown of earnings, including hourly wages and taxes.
  • Payslip Details:
    • The payslip contains the following key information:
      • Hourly earnings, with ordinary time totaling 84.50 hours and a base rate of 26 NZD, resulting in a taxable income of 2197 NZD.
      • Deductions, such as the P.A.Y.E. (Pay As You Earn) tax, which amounts to 422.70 NZD.
      • Net earnings after all deductions, which stand at 1774.30 NZD.
  • Additional Information on Payslip:
    • The payslip also provides insights into leave details and year-to-date balances, allowing room attendants to track their accrued benefits and financial progress.
  • Monthly Net Income:
    • In summary, room attendants in New Zealand can anticipate earning around 120,000 Philippine pesos net income per month. This figure already accounts for tax deductions, providing a clear understanding of take-home pay and financial stability for OFWs in this profession.

Room attendants in New Zealand typically receive an hourly wage, and this forms the basis of their compensation. One notable feature is that if you clock out from work, you’re no longer obligated to perform additional tasks, ensuring that workers are fairly compensated for their time. It’s worth noting that even minutes beyond the hour, such as 5.15 or 5.16, are paid, exemplifying the precision in wage calculations.

For room attendants, the standard salary interval is every two weeks, with each paycheck amounting to approximately 1700 New Zealand dollars. When converted at the prevalent currency exchange rate of around 33.7, this translates to roughly 59,000 Philippine pesos for two weeks of work, after deducting taxes.

Before taxes, the gross income hovers around 2100 NZD. This financial information can be verified through the payslip shown in the vlog. The payslip provides an intricate breakdown of earnings, offering insights into how room attendants’ salaries are structured.

The payslip includes details on hourly earnings, with ordinary time totaling 84.50 hours and a base rate of 26 NZD, resulting in a taxable income of 2197 NZD. After accounting for deductions, particularly the P.A.Y.E. (Pay As You Earn) tax, which amounts to 422.70 NZD, the net earnings for room attendants stand at 1774.30 NZD.

Furthermore, the payslip also reveals information related to leave balances and year-to-date financial summaries. This comprehensive documentation ensures that room attendants can keep track of their accrued benefits and overall financial progress.

Cost of Living in New Zealand

  • Accommodation:
    • The vlogger pays 180 NZD per week for a room, which is approximately 6000 pesos in the Philippines.
    • Monthly accommodation expenses amount to 720 NZD.
  • Utility Bills:
    • Utility bills, including electricity and internet, are paid monthly and total around 50 to 60 NZD.
  • Food Expenses:
    • Food expenses vary based on whether you are sharing expenses with someone or dining solo:
      • For two people, the weekly cost ranges from 60 to 80 NZD.
      • For solo dining, it can be as low as 30 to 40 NZD per week.
    • Monthly food expenses for an individual amount to 160 NZD.
  • Transportation:
    • Taking the bus costs around 2 NZD per day, considering a 5-day workweek with two days off.
    • Monthly transportation expenses sum up to around 40 NZD.
  • Total Monthly Expenses:
    • The average total monthly expenses in New Zealand for an OFW are approximately 970 NZD.
  • Net Savings:
    • After deducting expenses from earnings, you have a net income of 2,430 NZD.
    • When converted to pesos, this equates to approximately 80,000 pesos in savings.
  • Lifestyle Choices:
    • How much you save depends on your spending habits and financial discipline.
    • Some earn more but may not save as much, while others manage to save substantially.

In New Zealand, the cost of living for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) can be broken down into various categories. First, accommodation typically costs around 180 NZD per week, which translates to approximately 6000 pesos in the Philippines. This amounts to 720 NZD in monthly rent. Utility bills, including electricity and internet, are usually paid monthly, averaging around 50 to 60 NZD.

When it comes to food expenses, it varies based on whether an OFW is sharing costs with someone or dining solo. For two people, the weekly food cost falls within the range of 60 to 80 NZD. However, if you’re dining alone, you can budget as low as 30 to 40 NZD per week. Consequently, monthly food expenses for an individual average around 160 NZD.

Transportation costs also factor into the equation. Taking the bus, for instance, typically costs around 2 NZD per day, calculated based on a 5-day workweek with two days off. This amounts to approximately 40 NZD in monthly transportation expenses.

When you tally up these expenses, the average total monthly expenditure for an OFW in New Zealand comes to around 970 NZD. However, it’s essential to consider the savings potential. After subtracting expenses from earnings, an OFW can save approximately 2,430 NZD per month. When converted to pesos, this equates to roughly 80,000 pesos in savings.

The ability to save substantially depends on one’s spending habits and financial discipline. While some OFWs earn more but save less, others manage to accumulate significant savings by wisely budgeting their income. Overall, working in New Zealand can be a fulfilling experience, offering both financial stability and a high quality of life. The key lies in striking the right balance between enjoying the benefits of life in New Zealand and saving for future financial goals.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

Becoming a room attendant in New Zealand requires a combination of specific qualifications, skills, and personal attributes. As Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) seek opportunities in this role, they must meet certain criteria to excel in the competitive hospitality industry. Here are the key job requirements and qualifications:

  • Legal Eligibility to Work in New Zealand:
    • OFWs must possess the necessary work permits, visas, and legal documentation to work in New Zealand. Compliance with immigration and labor laws is crucial.
  • Education and Language Proficiency:
    • While formal education requirements may vary, a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred.
    • Proficiency in English is essential, as clear communication with guests and colleagues is paramount in the hospitality sector.
  • Physical Fitness:
    • Room attendants often engage in physically demanding tasks, such as lifting mattresses, pushing carts, and bending to clean low surfaces. Good physical fitness is important for the role.
  • Attention to Detail:
    • Room attendants must exhibit a keen eye for detail to ensure that guest rooms meet high cleanliness and presentation standards.
  • Time Management Skills:
    • Effective time management is crucial, as room attendants need to complete their tasks efficiently while adhering to schedules.
  • Cleaning Skills:
    • Familiarity with cleaning techniques, equipment, and cleaning products is essential. Knowledge of eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning practices is increasingly valued.
  • Customer Service Orientation:
    • A guest-centric approach is key. Room attendants should be courteous, friendly, and responsive to guest needs and requests.
  • Teamwork and Communication:
    • Collaboration with colleagues in the housekeeping department is common, so effective teamwork and communication skills are vital.
  • Adaptability:
    • OFWs should be adaptable to various guest preferences and cultural differences, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment for all.
  • Training and Certification:
    • Some employers may require or provide training specific to their establishment’s standards and procedures. Certification in housekeeping or hospitality can be an asset.
  • Work Experience:
    • Previous experience as a room attendant, housekeeper, or in a related role can enhance an OFW’s qualifications.

Benefits and Perks of Being a Room Attendant in New Zealand

When it comes to pursuing a career as a room attendant in New Zealand, the opportunities extend beyond just a job. Apart from the satisfaction of contributing to the hospitality industry, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in this role enjoy a range of benefits and perks that enhance both their professional and personal lives.

  1. Competitive Salaries:One of the primary draws for OFWs working as room attendants in New Zealand is the competitive salary packages. Room attendants are typically paid well in this country, providing them with financial stability. This income serves as a foundation for other benefits and savings.
  2. Health Insurance Coverage:Many employers in the hospitality sector offer comprehensive health insurance coverage to their employees. This benefit ensures that OFWs have access to healthcare services when needed, giving them peace of mind and security in times of illness or emergencies.
  3. Accommodation Arrangements:In some cases, employers provide accommodation arrangements for their room attendants. This not only simplifies housing concerns but also allows OFWs to focus on their job without the stress of finding suitable living spaces.
  4. Meal Allowances:Some establishments offer meal allowances as part of the compensation package. This perk not only adds to the overall income but also allows room attendants to enjoy the convenience of on-site dining facilities.
  5. Employee Discounts:Working in the hospitality industry often comes with the advantage of employee discounts. OFWs in the role of room attendants may benefit from reduced rates for dining, spa services, and accommodations within their workplace or affiliated properties.
  6. Opportunities for Career Advancement:New Zealand’s hospitality industry values talent and dedication. Room attendants have opportunities for career advancement, including moving into supervisory roles or exploring other positions within the hotel or resort management.
  7. Job Security:Stability in employment is another notable benefit. New Zealand’s strong tourism industry ensures a steady demand for skilled room attendants, reducing concerns about job security for OFWs.
  8. Cultural Exchange:Working in the hospitality sector allows OFWs to engage in cultural exchange on a daily basis. They interact with guests from diverse backgrounds, learn about different cultures, and develop valuable intercultural communication skills.
  9. Work-Life Balance:New Zealand promotes a healthy work-life balance. Room attendants often have well-defined work hours, allowing them to enjoy their free time exploring the country’s stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.
  10. Contribution to Savings:With competitive salaries and benefits, room attendants have the opportunity to save a significant portion of their income. This not only supports their financial goals but also enables them to provide for their families back in the Philippines.

Work Life Balance

Working as a room attendant in New Zealand isn’t just about the job; it’s about finding harmony between professional commitments and personal life. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in this role often discover that New Zealand’s work culture promotes a healthy work-life balance, allowing them to make the most of their time both inside and outside the workplace.

  1. Well-Defined Work Hours: One of the key factors contributing to the work-life balance for room attendants in New Zealand is the establishment of well-defined work hours. These hours are typically structured to ensure that room attendants can fulfill their responsibilities without excessive overtime or unpredictable schedules. This predictability allows OFWs to plan their personal lives effectively.
  2. Consistent Days Off: In New Zealand’s hospitality industry, it’s common for room attendants to have consistent days off. This regularity in their schedules provides them with dedicated time to relax, engage in leisure activities, or explore the beautiful landscapes and cultural experiences that New Zealand has to offer.
  3. Outdoor Opportunities: New Zealand’s stunning natural beauty provides room attendants with a plethora of outdoor opportunities. Whether it’s hiking through lush forests, enjoying a day at the beach, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, OFWs have access to a wide range of outdoor activities that contribute to a fulfilling work-life balance.
  4. Cultural Engagement: Beyond the workplace, OFWs have the opportunity to engage in cultural exchange through interactions with guests from around the world. Learning about different cultures and customs becomes an integral part of their daily routine, enriching their personal lives.

In the heart of New Zealand’s bustling hospitality industry, OFWs working as room attendants find a unique blend of career growth and personal fulfillment. Their role goes beyond maintaining rooms; it’s about bridging cultures, nurturing work ethic, and creating a life filled with remarkable experiences. With competitive salaries, health insurance, and a well-defined work-life balance, room attendants thrive both personally and professionally. They explore New Zealand’s beauty and culture, creating memories that last.