New Zealand experienced a substantial net migration loss of 30,000 people to Australia in December 2024, according to recent figures released by Stats NZ. This marks a continuing trend of New Zealanders seeking opportunities across the Tasman Sea, with similar numbers observed in 2023.
The data highlights a concerning outflow of residents, impacting New Zealand’s population dynamics despite an overall net migration gain from the rest of the world.
A Decade-High Migration Loss
The 2024 net migration loss to Australia represents the largest for a calendar year since 2012, when the country saw a record loss of 43,700 people in March of that year. While significant, the current figures are not unprecedented.
- Historical Context: From 2004 to 2013, New Zealand consistently experienced an average net migration loss of around 30,000 people to Australia annually. This trend then saw a marked decrease, dropping to approximately 3,000 per year between 2014 and 2019.
- Recent Figures: The 2024 loss consisted of 47,300 migrant departures from New Zealand to Australia, offset by 17,300 migrant arrivals from Australia. This is still below the record for migrant departures to Australia, which was 62,800 in June 2012.
Australia: The Preferred Destination
Australia remains the top destination for New Zealand citizens choosing to emigrate. In 2024, a significant 58% of New Zealand’s 69,300 migrant departures were destined for Australia.
- Changing Demographics: Interestingly, there has been a growing proportion of New Zealand citizens who were born outside of New Zealand choosing to migrate to Australia. In 2024, 35% of New Zealand citizens who moved to Australia were foreign-born. This suggests that the pull factors of Australia are not only affecting native-born New Zealanders but also those who have acquired New Zealand citizenship.
Overall Migration Picture
Despite the substantial loss to Australia, New Zealand managed an overall provisional net migration gain of 54,100 from the rest of the world (excluding Australia) in 2024.
- Offsetting Losses: This gain more than compensated for the 30,000 net migration loss to Australia.
- Reduced Gain: However, this overall net gain is significantly lower than the record high of 157,300 seen in 2023, indicating a slowdown in international arrivals or an increase in departures to other parts of the world.
The consistent flow of migrants to Australia highlights ongoing challenges for New Zealand in retaining its residents, particularly skilled workers and those seeking new opportunities. This trend will likely continue to be a key area of focus for policymakers in both nations.
