Economic Strain Drives Record Emigration from New Zealand
Annual Emigration Record Broken as 131,200 New Zealanders Leave by June
Newzealand: Statistics New Zealand released data on Tuesday showing that 131,200 people left New Zealand in the year ending June 2024, marking a provisional record for an annual period. Approximately one-third of these departures were heading to Australia.
Although net migration remains high, economists anticipate a decline in this trend. They expect the number of foreign nationals interested in moving to New Zealand to decrease due to the current softer economy.
The data revealed that among those departing, 80,174 were New Zealand citizens—nearly double the pre-pandemic figures.
Merrily Allen is preparing to relocate with her partner and 14-year-old daughter to Hobart, Tasmania, in early 2025.
“There’s a lot of opportunity there. They’re constantly seeking people in my profession,” said Allen, who works in dental administration.
“I’ve got a lot of friends who have moved to Australia—mainly for better job opportunities and improved living conditions. Australia just seems to have it all together,” said Allen.
During the pandemic, the then-government’s effective handling of the outbreak led to a historic influx of New Zealanders returning home. However, some have since lost their affection for the country. Economists suggest that New Zealanders, disillusioned by the high cost of living, elevated interest rates, and limited job prospects, are now looking to Australia, the UK, and other destinations.
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New Zealand’s economy is struggling, with the central bank implementing its most aggressive tightening since 1999 by raising cash rates by 521 basis points. Economic growth slowed to 0.2% in the first quarter, unemployment increased to 4.7% in the second quarter, and inflation remains high at 3.3%.
Additionally, Australia has been actively recruiting and offering relocation packages in fields like nursing, policing, and teaching, where there are skill shortages. This has attracted New Zealanders, who can work there without needing a visa. Meanwhile, the New Zealand government has significantly downsized the public service, leading many skilled workers to seek opportunities elsewhere.
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