New Zealand's population exodus hits 13-year high as economy worsens
Reuters5 days
New Zealand Faces 13-Year Record Citizen Exodus
Above: The skyline of New Zealand's capital, Wellington, on July 29, 2020. Image copyright: Birgit Krippner/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Right narrative
If New Zealand wants to encourage more of its citizens to stay rather than emigrate abroad, it must be bolder in building the economic conditions that would convince people to remain. The National government is committed to making this a reality by developing a country that provides the jobs and wages Kiwis need to build their future at home.
Left narrative
The record outflow of New Zealand citizens is a damning indictment of the government's handling of the economy and governance. Instead of remaining at home, Kiwis are voting with their feet to find a better life abroad. If elected, the New Zealand Labour Party will do everything in its power to reverse this trend by rebuilding economic opportunity in New Zealand.
Cynical narrative
The departure surge threatens New Zealand's long-term economic recovery by depleting the skilled workforce needed for productivity growth. Young professionals leaving represent lost human capital, while reduced immigration compounds demographic challenges for a nation of just 5.3 million people facing structurally serious economic problems.
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.15.0
© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.15.0