How to pay yourself from your business in New Zealand

Taking money out of your business seems straightforward, until tax, drawings and record-keeping enter the picture. For most business owners, that’s where things start to feel less certain.

This guide is for New Zealand business owners, founders, directors and sole traders who want a clearer way to pay themselves without creating headaches down the track. We’ll walk you through the key payment methods, explain the differences that matter and help you build a practical approach to staying on top of your finances.

What’s in the guide?

A practical guide to the areas that matter most:

• How paying yourself works across different business structures
• The difference between salary, wages and director’s drawings
• Key tax considerations to keep in mind
• Record-keeping habits that make life easier
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Practical tips for choosing the right payment method
• A simple look at how Employment Hero can support payroll, documentation and business processes

The guide closes with practical reminders you can use to review how you’re currently paying yourself and what to check next.

Fill in the form on the right to download the guide.

The information in this article is current as at 5 April 2026, and has been prepared by Employment Hero Pty Ltd (ABN 11 160 047 709) and its related bodies corporate (Employment Hero). The views expressed in this article are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. Some information is based on data supplied by third parties. While such data is believed to be accurate, it has not been independently verified and no warranties are given that it is complete, accurate, up to date or fit for the purpose for which it is required. Employment Hero does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy in such data and is not liable for any loss or damages arising directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this article. You should undertake your own research and seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this article.