New Zealand market insights

Takeaways from people2people's 2026 Report

New Zealand market breakdown

Key trends and insights

New Zealand’s job market has tightened in early 2026, with unemployment rising to 5.4% and labour supply shifting again. Job ads are up 6% and applications have increased 7%, showing employers are still hiring but candidates are facing heavier competition. Hiring confidence sits at 46%, while job seeker confidence is stronger at 57%, reflecting a market where movement remains active but caution still shapes decision-making.
Replacement hiring is now the dominant driver across New Zealand, particularly in Auckland and Wellington, pointing to continued workforce churn rather than broad expansion. Growth hiring is still present, but more selectively, suggesting many employers are focused on backfilling critical roles instead of adding headcount aggressively.
Net overseas migration is also easing sharply, as gains in non-New Zealand citizens are being offset by the continued loss of New Zealand citizens. Combined with turnover pressures around pay, management, culture, and career development, employers will need sharper attraction and retention strategies in 2026.

2026 New Zealand Labour Market

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5.4%

Unemployment Rate

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70.9%

National Participation Rate

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2.1%

National Application Increase

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6%

Annual National Job Ad Change

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57%

Job Seeker Confidence Index

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46%

Hiring Confidence Index

New Zealand job seeker sentiment

How engaged are people in today's job market?

Across New Zealand in 2026, job seekers are approaching the market with a renewed sense of clarity and balance. After several years of economic uncertainty and shifting workforce dynamics, many are prioritising employers who can offer both stability and authenticity. Flexibility remains a top expectation nationwide, but it’s now accompanied by a desire for meaningful work, professional growth, and genuine workplace wellbeing.

Rather than moving quickly between roles, Kiwis are making more deliberate career choices — assessing an organisation’s culture, leadership, and long-term direction before committing. This more thoughtful, values-driven mindset is shaping a candidate market that’s steadier and more discerning, where both sides — employers and employees — are looking for relationships built to last.

36%

of jobseekers are passively looking or hesitant to move

62%

of job seekers are engaged in at least 3 interview processes

14%

of job seekers say their salary is below market levels

27%

of job seekers say salary doesn't reflect performance or workload

Are you being paid your worth?

Know the New Zealand market before you apply

Employment trends shaping New Zealand labour market in 2025

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2026 Employment & Salary Report

Stay ahead of your market across Australia

Take a closer look at what’s driving hiring in your industry, from shifting employer priorities to the roles most in demand. This comprehensive report reveals the key trends shaping recruitment and workforce strategy this year, providing your business with a competitive edge in today’s uncertain labour market.


  • Benchmark your company's attraction and retention strategies
  • Find out what job seekers are looking for in 2026
  • Identify emerging and current hiring and salary trends