According to another regular survey on IT salaries carried out by the company the average New Zealand IT package is $80,000 a year, compared with A$91,0000 in Australia.

Local employers can reduce the chances of an employee exodus to Australia by offering flexible work practices, and the ability to work from home, he says.

"Employers need to spend more time thinking about how they can keep the talent here, and remote access doesn't cost a lot.

"It involves a degree of trust in the employee, while ensuring that proper processes are being followed and results are being delivered, but there are distinct benefits."

Burley cites himself as an example.