New Zealand’s annual net migration gain has fallen sharply, with new figures showing more people are continuing to leave the country despite strong overseas arrivals.
Stats NZ says the country recorded a net migration gain of 24,200 people in the year ending March 2026, made up of 135,500 migrant arrivals and 111,300 departures.
While migrant arrivals remained relatively stable compared with last year, departures stayed near record levels, reflecting ongoing economic pressures and increased numbers of New Zealanders moving overseas.
The latest figures are significantly lower than the record migration growth experienced during 2023 and early 2024, when New Zealand saw historically high levels of net migration following the reopening of international borders after the pandemic.
Australia continues to be one of the main destinations for departing New Zealand citizens, with higher wages and employment opportunities across the Tasman attracting workers and families.
Economists say migration trends are now beginning to normalise after the post-pandemic surge, though concerns remain about the impact on workforce shortages, housing demand and economic growth.
The slowing migration gain comes as many households continue facing high living costs, housing pressure and rising unemployment in some sectors.
Business groups have warned lower migration growth could intensify labour shortages in industries already struggling to recruit staff, including healthcare, construction, hospitality and agriculture.
At the same time, some communities have raised concerns about the strain rapid population growth places on housing, infrastructure and public services.
Migration remains a major contributor to New Zealand’s population growth and labour force, particularly as the country faces an ageing population and ongoing demand for skilled workers.
The latest data also highlights broader global migration trends, with economic uncertainty and changing immigration policies influencing movement between countries.
Population analysts say migration patterns will remain closely watched over the coming year as the economy slows and employment opportunities shift both in New Zealand and overseas
