Kiwi Exodus: Record Number of New Zealanders Emigrating Amidst Economic Downturn
2025-08-16
New Zealand is experiencing its highest level of emigration in 13 years, with over a third of those leaving being under 30. High unemployment and sluggish economic growth are driving the exodus. Data shows 71,800 New Zealand citizens departed in the year to June 2025, a 13-year high. Analysts blame the downturn on low productivity and policy failures. While the Reserve Bank has cut interest rates, unemployment remains high, and the cost of living is pushing many to seek opportunities elsewhere. Australia, among other countries, is actively recruiting skilled New Zealanders.