May 2026 Report
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NZ LABOUR MARKET The Auckland Exodus

One key labour market trend that is not being discussed enough is the changing landscape of labour market mobility.

The ongoing cost of living challenges facing the average New Zealand household are encouraging more families and professionals alike to relocate.

These relocation trends are predominantly Auckland-centric (followed by Wellington), where prospective candidates are choosing to move to more affordable New Zealand cities that offer lifestyle benefits, easier commutes, and job opportunities. The main benefactor of this new ‘semi-transient’ labour market appears to be Christchurch, but the likes of Tasman, Waikato, Marlborough, and Otago also appear to be benefiting from the ‘Auckland exodus’. The detail below helps support this emerging trend.

Candidate Mobility Chart

Top 4 Skill Shortages:

Market Findings

Team Update:

We’re pleased to welcome Katie Adams to the Search Recruitment family! Katie brings over a decade of recruitment experience across a wide range of local industries. She will be specialising in skilled industrial recruitment across Supply Chain, Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics, and broader primary industry sectors throughout Marlborough, Nelson, and Tasman.

Key Appointments:

NZ Hops

Quality Assurance Specialist

Kūmānu Environmental

Financial Controller

Nelson Pine LVL

ERP Business Analyst

New Zealand King Salmon

Financial Controller

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