Wednesday, February 03, 2016

Economic Strength Reflected in Employment Figures

Growth in employment figures is evidence the underlying economic fundamentals of our economy are paying dividends, says EMA.

“We have been consistent in our belief the economy is sound and will drive growth and subsequent rise in employment,” says Kim Campbell, CEO, EMA.

“We saw a significant turnaround in business confidence by our members late last year, with the majority saying they expected their business to grow in the first half of this year. This looks to have come through in today’s employment statistics,” says Kim Campbell, CEO, EMA.

Statistics New Zealand confirmed unemployment had fallen to 5.3%, in the December 2015 quarter the lowest rate since 2009, and the number of employed people has risen at the same time.

“Combine this with the 60,000-plus net positive increase in migrants for 2015, and this is a real milestone for businesses in New Zealand. It also shows a maturity of our economy and its ability to ride out vagaries such as the diary downturn late last year and ongoing global uncertainty,” says Mr Campbell.

ENDS

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