The Council of Trade Unions is warning a gap in the wages between Maori and non-Maori is widening.
Statistics New Zealand says the average weekly wage rose 1.8% to $455 per week over the past year.
The average Maori wage fell 1.5% to $392 per week.
CTU economist Bill Rosenberg told Waatea News that Maori are concentrated in the services industries, where wages are lower.
Dr Rosenberg said a decline in union membership, fewer manufacturing jobs and the recession are all having an effect and the CTU is concerned at the impact on society of increased inequality.
