New Zealand’s population is decreasing. Last year, about 129,000 inhabitants left, which is 40% more than the pre-pandemic average for this century. Last in, first out is not the situation here. There was a net loss of 47,000 citizens as most of the departing individuals were New Zealanders rather than immigrants going back home.
Despite being a settlement nation, emigration also shapes New Zealand. Young New Zealanders have long been drawn to what they refer to as the “overseas experience” due to its tiny economy and relative lack of opportunities, which has fueled concerns about brain drain.
New Zealandis one the smallest countries of the OECD club, a club of mostly wealthy countries. It has a population of 5.3 million people. It means the country lost around 1 percent of its population.
Many New Zealanders can freely move to Australia to live and work. This option has been more lucrative in recent years. The living cost is much more affordable in Australia compared to New Zealand and Its pensions are more generous. With a center-left government in Australia, Kiwis may now obtain passports and benefits easier. On the other hand, in New Zealand unemployment has increased and the economy is in a recession and the cost of living has risen, pushing many young Kiwi students to “overseas experience”.
Source: Economist
