March 31, 2026

#economy: More Than 40,000 Jobs Lost as Unions Warn of Worsening Employment Crisis

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 31, 2026

New Zealand has lost more than 41,000 filled jobs over the past two years, with new data highlighting a sustained decline in employment across multiple sectors and regions.

Figures released by Stats NZ show 41,465 fewer people in work compared with the same period two years ago, painting a picture of ongoing job losses since the last election.

The decline has been felt across key industries, with manufacturing shedding around 10,000 jobs and construction losing more than 19,000 workers. Younger workers have been particularly affected, with nearly 39,000 fewer people aged between 15 and 24 in employment.

Male employment has also dropped significantly, with around 30,000 fewer men in work over the same period.

The downturn is being reflected across the country, with Auckland alone losing around 21,000 jobs. Other regions including Northland, Waikato, Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay have also recorded declines, indicating the issue is widespread rather than isolated.

At the same time, workers who remain employed are facing increasing pressure, with wage growth failing to keep pace with inflation. This means many households are experiencing a drop in real income, despite continued participation in the workforce.

Union leaders say the data reflects what many people are already experiencing on the ground, with growing difficulty in finding work and maintaining financial stability.

There are also warnings that conditions could worsen, with the latest figures not yet reflecting the full impact of global economic pressures, including rising fuel costs and international instability.

Calls are mounting for a more coordinated response, with a focus on job creation, support for affected industries, and measures to ensure workers benefit from any future economic recovery.

The latest figures are expected to intensify debate over the Government’s economic strategy, as concerns grow about the long-term outlook for employment in Aotearoa.