New Zealand Faces Migration Shift as Kiwis Leave in Droves

New figures from Statistics NZ reveal a notable change in migration patterns in New Zealand, with over 72,000 long-term departures of its citizens recorded between September 2024 and September 2025. This data, released this week, indicates the country’s lowest net migration gain since 2013, excluding the years affected by COVID-19. While the Labour Party suggests that the statistics point to Kiwis “giving up and heading overseas,” a more complex picture emerges upon closer examination.

Despite the increased departures, net migration for the same period remains positive, with 12,434 more people arriving than leaving. Specifically, New Zealand welcomed 138,871 long-term arrivals while experiencing 126,437 long-term departures across all nationalities. Although these figures indicate growth, they are significantly lower than previous years, particularly 44,000 less than in 2015 and 120,300 less than in the exceptional post-pandemic year of 2023.

Long-Term Migration Trends

Historically, from 2002 to 2019, New Zealand averaged a net gain of 28,400 migrants annually, more than double the current figures. Statistics NZ has noted that the numbers for 2025 are provisional, as definitive long-term stay durations can only be established after individuals complete 12 of the next 16 months in or out of the country.

The primary factor contributing to the reduced net migration is the record number of Kiwis departing for long-term stays abroad. In the September 2025 year, 72,684 New Zealand citizens left the country, while only 26,316 returned after living abroad for at least 12 months. Over the past decade, the trend has shown a steady increase in departures, coinciding with a decline in return migration. Notably, the number of Kiwis returning has not returned to pre-COVID levels.

Among the long-term arrivals in September 2025, the data shows a diverse set of nationalities. This includes 26,316 New Zealand citizens, 18,550 Chinese citizens, 18,256 Indian citizens, and 10,574 Filipino citizens. Conversely, the departures included 72,684 New Zealand citizens, 7,870 Chinese citizens, 5,662 Indian citizens, 4,917 UK citizens, and 4,257 Australian citizens.

Future Implications of Migration Trends

Migration trends for non-New Zealand citizens have shown recovery from the lows experienced during the pandemic but have significantly declined since 2023. The departures of non-citizens have reached their highest level in the last decade, although the overall 10-year trend remains relatively stable.

As New Zealand continues to navigate these evolving migration patterns, the implications for the economy and society are significant. With the outflow of citizens increasing and the rate of return decreasing, policymakers may need to address the underlying factors driving New Zealanders abroad. The changing landscape warrants close monitoring to understand its impact on the nation’s demographic and economic future.