Developers of the Novopay school payroll system have apologised over the ongoing pay problems that have pushed schools and their staff to breaking point.

Former Meridian Energy chief executive Tim Lusk was paid $1.37 million, including more than $800,000 in bonuses, during his last six months with the SOE.

Employment is a fearful responsibility, so the new youth rate is a temporary saving for employers to entice them to take a chance on a young person.

The government will unveil the details of its version of the "youth wage" today - allowing employers to pay less than the minimum wage to many young workers.

"Frankly, I am not convinced that our CEOs are that great. In fact, they seem decidedly mediocre but not paid that way," writes Deborah Hill Cone.

Fees for board chairs have jumped in the past year as workloads increase and finance company prosecutions show the importance of directors "getting it right".

An OECD report has revealed that tertiary study adds little to New Zealanders' earning power.

New Zealand Defence Force staff are in line for a $45 million pay rise - but rents for those living in defence accommodation will also be increasing.

The salary of Auckland Council chief executive Doug McKay has jumped from $675,000 to $768,750 in one year after an incentive bonus was rolled into his fixed pay.

Former Telecom boss Paul Reynolds pocketed more than $12 million in cash and shares during his final year with the company.

Base pay for top executives has risen nearly 10 per cent in the past year but bonuses and incentives have come down dramatically.