November 02, 2022
Māori jobless numbers low as economy grows
Wages are outpacing inflation as people enter the workforce in record numbers.
September quarter figures released by Statistics New Zealand show the average hourly wage increased 7.4 percent to $37.86, outpacing inflation at 7.2 percent.
Unemployment is at 3.3 percent, and the participation rate is a record high 71.7 percent.
Social Development Minister Carmel Sepuloni says the strong labour market is having a positive impact for women, Pacific, Māori and young people.
The Māori unemployment rate remains low with most Māori who enter the workforce finding employment.
She credits programmes such as Mana in Mahi, Flexiwage and Apprenticeship Boost for helping people move into long term sustainable employment.
Youth employment increased strongly, and the number not in employment, education or training falling by 0.7 percent.
An extra 35,000 people were employed in the quarter, leading to a record high number of 2.85 million people in work.