Dr Hon Lockwood Smith MP
National Party Immigration Spokesman

19 December 2007

Exodus from NZ reaches new high

National Party Immigration spokesman Lockwood Smith says the exodus of people leaving New Zealand continues to grow.

"Last month, the 75,000 permanent and long term departures were the highest for a decade. One month on, and the record's been broken again. In the 12 months to the end of November, 76,000 people left New Zealand."

Dr Smith says that among the stats are some alarming figures. For example, the exodus of Kiwis to Australia is up almost 70% since 2003.

"What's worrying is that it's not just new migrants turning around and leaving. The number of New Zealand citizens leaving for Australia is also the highest for a decade. The net outflow to Australia is, in fact, the highest in 19 years."

Dr Smith said that 76% of those leaving for Australia were in their prime working years, from 15 to 59 years of age.

The data shows that roughly equal numbers of professionals, service and sales people, and trade workers, left for Australia. In comparison, those coming to New Zealand include far fewer trade workers than professionals.

"It's little wonder New Zealand is facing serious shortages of skilled tradesmen and women," says Dr Smith.

ENDS

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