New Zealand saw a net migration loss of 30,000 people to Australia in the year to December 2024, according to new Stats NZ figures.

It’s the highest calendar-year loss in over a decade, matching levels last seen between 2004 and 2013.

A total of 47,300 people left for Australia, while just 17,300 arrived from across the Tasman.

The numbers are similar to 2023, when 29,400 more people left than arrived.

Most of those leaving were New Zealand citizens, making up 85 percent of departures in 2024, and over half were aged between 20 and 39.

Interestingly, more than a third of the Kiwis who moved to Australia were actually born overseas.

Despite the loss to Australia, New Zealand still gained 54,100 people from the rest of the world last year.

That’s well down from the record-setting 157,300 in 2023, but still enough to keep the population growing overall.

This story matters to Coasties because it reflects a broader trend of young Kiwis looking offshore for opportunities.

Whether it’s better pay, lifestyle, or job prospects, Australia continues to be the first stop.

With many locals having friends or family across the ditch, the ripple effects are felt right here on the Hibiscus Coast.

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