Short version: the brackets didn't change. Budget 2026 left them where they've been since 31 July 2024, so the 2026–27 tax year (1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027) uses the same rates as 2025–26.
The brackets
| Income | Rate | Most tax on that slice |
|---|---|---|
| $0 – $15,600 | 10.5% | $1,638 |
| $15,601 – $53,500 | 17.5% | $6,632.50 |
| $53,501 – $78,100 | 30% | $7,380 |
| $78,101 – $180,000 | 33% | $33,627 |
| Over $180,000 | 39% | 39c per dollar |
How brackets actually work
Each rate only applies to the slice of income inside its bracket. On $70,000, the first $15,600 is taxed at 10.5%, the next $37,900 at 17.5%, and only the last $16,500 at 30%. That's why moving into a higher bracket never leaves you with less money. Only the extra dollars are taxed at the higher rate.
What that comes to
| Salary | Income tax | Of your income | Top rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $7,658 | 15.3% | 17.5% |
| $70,000 | $13,220.50 | 18.9% | 30% |
| $100,000 | $22,877.50 | 22.9% | 33% |
| $150,000 | $39,377.50 | 26.3% | 33% |
Income tax only. The ACC earners' levy comes on top.
What did change on 1 April 2026
- ACC earners' levy: up from 1.67% to 1.75%, on earnings up to $156,641 (was $152,790).
- KiwiSaver: the default contribution rate went from 3% to 3.5% for both employees and employers.
- Student loans: no change. Repayments are still 12% of income over $24,128.
See exactly what lands in your account each pay.
Open the take-home pay calculator →Common questions
When did the current brackets start?
31 July 2024. The 2024–25 year used blended rates because of the mid-year change. 2025–26 was the first full year on these brackets, and 2026–27 keeps them.
What's the independent earner tax credit?
Up to $520 a year ($10 a week) for people earning between $24,000 and $70,000 who don't get Working for Families, a main benefit or NZ Super. It shrinks by 13 cents for every dollar over $66,000.
Do the brackets include ACC?
No. The ACC earners' levy is separate, though your employer takes both out through PAYE.
Sources: Inland Revenue, Tax rates for individuals; ACC, Earners' levy; Inland Revenue, KiwiSaver and Student loans. Checked October 2026.