How new immigration policies could reverse NZ’s record exodus

How new immigration policies could reverse NZ’s record exodus
Citizens and non-citizens alike are leaving NZ in record numbers. (Image: Getty)
Jem Traylen
New Zealand’s official exodus has reached a new record with 128,000 long-term departures in the year to November – provisionally the highest on record for an annual period.It’s not just NZ citizens who are leaving; high levels of non-NZ citizens are also departing, contributing to the record outflow of people seeking greener pastures.That’s driven net migration down to levels not seen since around 2012, when NZers crossed the Ditch to catch the tail end of the Australian mining boom.Unemployment is an obvious factor driv...

More Policy

LNG imports: Watts open-minded on scale
Policy

LNG imports: Watts open-minded on scale

Energy sector analysts fear a "small, cheap" option will push up the LNG price NZ pays.

Pattrick Smellie 09 Oct 2025
Adrian Orr launches new company as restraint of trade lifts
Economy

Adrian Orr launches new company as restraint of trade lifts

It’s been six months since his exit from the central bank.

Denise McNabb 07 Oct 2025
Auckland’s Milldale housing project approved
Policy

Auckland’s Milldale housing project approved

The project is the third approved since applications opened in February.

Michael Neilson 03 Oct 2025
Govt outlines strategy to deliver Defence Capability Plan
Economy

Govt outlines strategy to deliver Defence Capability Plan

The economy and NZ industry would be beneficiaries.

Staff reporters 03 Oct 2025