Our take on the latest National population estimates (Fri 25 Jan 2019)
New measure of migration
Annual net migration 43,416 in Nov 2018
Annual net migration down 10,400 from Nov 2017
The key numbers...
- StatsNZ's new measure of migration shows actual migration is lower than originally thought from the previous intentions-based data. For example, annual net migration in October 2018 was previously 61,800, and is now estimated to be 45,200.
Net Migration
Annual data
...and our reaction
- StatsNZ has changed its data for international migration statistics from an intentions-based model to an outcomes-based estimate.
Latest updates
Premium
National population estimates
Population growth lifted by increasing migration
Mon 18 May 2026
Quarterly
5,361,300 Total NZ population estimate as at March 2026
0.8%pa Population growth in March 2026 quarter24,200 Net migration over the year to March 2026Premium
National population estimates
Population growth steady at 0.6%pa
Tue 17 Feb 2026
Quarterly
5,342,000 Total NZ population estimate as at December 2025
0.6%pa Population growth in December 2025 quarter
14,200 Net migration over the year to December 2025National population estimates
Population growth steady at 0.6%pa
Mon 17 Nov 2025
Quarterly
5,334,200 Total NZ population estimate as of September 2025
Population grows 0.6%pa in September 2025 quarterNet migration edges up to 12,500 for year ending September 2025National population estimates
Population growth now just 0.7%pa
Tue 19 Aug 2025
Quarterly
5,324,700 Total NZ population estimate as at June 2025
Population grows 0.7%pa in June 2025 quarterNet migration eases to 13,700 for year ending June 2025