Statistics released by New Zealand’s official department have raised eyebrows as a huge number of people were reportedly leaving New Zealand.
The data showed that 131,200 people left the country in the year ending in June 2024, due to unemployment, high interest rates and sluggish economic growth.
80,174 Were Citizens
Out of the total number of people leaving the country, 80,174 were Kiwi nationals, the data showed.
The worrying aspect of the data is that the nationals are leaving almost double to those of non-nationals and that too after the pandemic.
Scores of people left New Zealand during the covid pandemic but they were able to return in huge numbers after being convinced by the government.
Many Kiwis Settling in Australia
Many New Zealanders are moving to Australia for better job opportunities, in sectors like nursing and teaching.
Additionally, New Zealand’s public service downsizing has left skilled workers seeking opportunities abroad.