New Zealand is seeing a record number of people leaving the country, driven by economic pressures that are making life at home increasingly challenging. According to Statistics New Zealand, a staggering 131,200 people left the country in the year ending June 2024, setting a new annual record. Of these, about a third are heading to Australia, highlighting a significant trend of New Zealanders moving to Australia in search of better opportunities.
This mass departure comes against a backdrop of rising unemployment, high interest rates, and tepid economic growth in New Zealand. The data reveals that nearly 80,000 of those who left were New Zealand citizens, nearly double the number of people who left before the COVID-19 pandemic. This surge underscores the growing frustration among Kiwis over their current economic conditions.
Economists expect that while New Zealand's net migration (the balance of people arriving versus leaving) remains high, it might soon decline. With the New Zealand economy struggling—marked by a minimal 0.2% annual growth, a rising unemployment rate of 4.7%, and persistent inflation at 3.3%—fewer foreign nationals are likely to be interested in moving to New Zealand.
For many New Zealanders, Australia represents a land of opportunity. Merrily Allen, for example, is planning a move to Hobart, Tasmania, with her family in early 2025. "There’s a lot of opportunity over there," Allen said. "Australia seems to have it together, and they’re always looking for people in my profession." Her decision reflects a broader trend of Kiwis seeking better living conditions and job prospects across the Tasman Sea.
Australia’s proactive recruitment in sectors like nursing, policing, and teaching, combined with their attractive relocation packages, has made the move even more appealing. Plus, New Zealanders don’t need visas to work in Australia, making the transition smoother.
On the flip side, New Zealand’s economic woes have been exacerbated by the central bank’s drastic interest rate hikes. With a rise of 521 basis points—the most aggressive tightening since the introduction of the official cash rate in 1999—many skilled workers are finding the local job market increasingly challenging. Additionally, the significant downsizing of the public service sector has left many without job prospects, further encouraging them to look abroad.
The rise in New Zealanders moving to Australia underscores the impact of economic conditions on migration trends. As New Zealand continues to grapple with these issues, Australia stands out as a promising destination for those seeking a fresh start and new opportunities.
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