New Zealand market insights

Takeaways from people2people's 2025 Report

New Zealand market breakdown

Key trends and insights

Auckland’s job market has tightened in early 2025, with a 1.7% drop in filled jobs—over 13,000 roles lost. While migration continues to boost population growth, more Kiwis are heading offshore for better pay, especially in Australia. Increased competition among job seekers has reduced candidate bargaining power. Employers are still navigating uncertainty and should adjust hiring strategies to retain key talent.

Wellington’s market remains cautious but stable. Although cost pressures persist, major cuts in finance roles have been avoided. Demand is growing for financial accountants and business partners as organisations seek efficiency and growth. Recruitment is expected to lift in the second half of the year as budgets reset.

Unemployment has risen to 5.1%—a four-year high—reflecting a cooling economy. Job seekers face stiffer competition, but demand remains strong in IT, engineering, construction, and healthcare. Both employers and candidates will need to stay flexible and focus on areas of ongoing demand as the market continues to shift.

2025 New Zealand Labour Market

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5.2%

Unemployment Rate

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70.5%

National Participation Rate

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2.7%

National Inflation Rate

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-27%

Annual National Job Ad Change

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51%

Job Seeker Confidence Index

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60%

Hiring Confidence Index

New Zealand job seeker sentiment

How engaged are people in today's job market?

Across New Zealand in 2025, 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.

72

Active job seekers

25%

Passive job seekers

2%

Hesitant job seekers

1%

Inactive job seekers

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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2025 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 2025
  • Identify emerging and current hiring and salary trends