Wages vary, but waiters/waitresses usually earn between $12 and $15 an hour, depending on qualifications, experience and their employer. They may also receive tips from customers. It is up to the discretion of the restaurant/hotel manager if the tips are kept or divided equally with other staff.

According to the 2006 Census, waiters/waitresses earned an average of $11,000 a year.

In their April 2008 Remuneration Survey, the Restaurant Association of New Zealand reported that the average salary for waiters/waitresses is about $14,000 a year.

Industry sources indicate that the average gross salary for waiters/waitresses in 2008 was about $28,000, with the highest-paid 25% earning about $29,000, while the lowest-paid 25% earned an average of $26,000 a year.

Waiters and waitresses may progress to become supervisors, maitres d'hotel, or restaurant or café managers.  Some progress to open their own restaurants or bars.