The latest 2023 Census results shed light on demographic trends in the Hibiscus and Bays area, underscoring continued population growth, housing expansion, and evolving diversity in one of Auckland’s most dynamic regions.

Conducted on 7 March 2023, the Census recorded 114,033 usual residents in the Hibiscus and Bays area, an increase of 10,023 people since 2018.

This represents a growth rate of 9.6%, outpacing Auckland’s overall rate of 5.4% during the same period.

While slower than the 15.8% growth observed between 2013 and 2018, the region’s population now accounts for 6.9% of Auckland’s total, up from 6.6% five years ago.

Housing Development on the Rise

Housing growth has kept pace with the population increase, with 40,341 occupied private dwellings recorded in 2023, a 9.4% jump from 2018.

Additionally, 1,461 unoccupied private dwellings were noted in the census.

The area’s dwelling growth exceeded Auckland’s overall rate of 8.7%.

Ownership remains a defining feature of the local housing market, with 73.9% of properties owned, partly owned, or held in family trusts—significantly higher than Auckland’s citywide average of 59.5%.

The remaining 26.1% of homes are rented, reflecting a mix of private and public sector tenancies.

Ageing Population and Diversity

The Hibiscus and Bays area continues to have one of the oldest populations among Auckland’s local boards, with a median age of 41.3 years, compared to Auckland’s 35.9 years.

Residents aged 65 or older make up 18.6% of the population, well above the city average of 13.3%.

In contrast, the proportion of residents under 15 years (18.8%) and those aged 15–64 (62.6%) are both slightly below Auckland-wide averages.

Ethnic diversity in the region reflects a unique profile compared to Auckland as a whole.

European ethnicities make up 75.9% of the population, compared to 49.8% citywide.

Asian ethnicities account for 20.6%, Māori for 7.2%, and Pacific Peoples for 2.4%.

The Māori population, in particular, saw a significant 21.3% increase since 2018.

Smaller groups identifying as Middle Eastern, Latin American, or African (MELAA) represent 2.2% of the community.

Gender Identity Insights

For the first time, the census collected data on gender identity.

In Hibiscus and Bays, 51.0% of residents identified as female, 48.6% as male, and 0.3% as another gender.

These figures align closely with Auckland-wide averages.

The 2023 Census results provide a comprehensive snapshot of the Hibiscus and Bays area, highlighting its steady growth, evolving demographics, and community characteristics that continue to shape its future.

Have a story to share?

Contact [email protected]