New Zealand job ads stabilise as spring brings early recruitment surge
Job vacancy numbers in New Zealand have stabilised after two years of decline, according to new figures released by the job search platform ZEIL.
Recent data from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) highlights that job advertisements increased by 0.6 percent year-on-year in July, following decreases of 28.2 percent in 2023 and 26.6 percent in 2024.
This rise has been noted particularly as the spring season begins, when sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and agriculture are typically ramping up preparations for the busy summer period. For these industries, ensuring adequate staffing remains a central challenge as they anticipate an increase in demand during the summer months.
Labour market stabilisation
The modest growth in job advertisements is interpreted as an early sign that the labour market may be stabilising. A return to more positive vacancy figures is being received as a cautiously positive indication for businesses that are beginning to re-enter growth mode after prolonged uncertainty and volatility.
According to MBIE's data, the technology sector stands out, with vacancies in IT roles rising by 11 percent – the first increase since double-digit declines began in 2022. This is considered significant, as the IT sector is often seen as a barometer for broader business confidence and investment.
We're seeing early and elevated interest from job seekers this year – a clear sign that people are ready to work, and businesses need to move fast. Spring recruitment is no longer a nice-to-have; it's a strategic priority. Those who plan ahead will secure the talent they need to thrive this summer," said Caitlin Langlands, Marketing Manager at ZEIL, a Kiwi-owned job search platform.
Earlier surge in seasonal interest
The timing of recruitment is taking on new importance for employers in seasonal industries. ZEIL reports a 45 percent increase in candidate interest for seasonal roles over the past two weeks, and the surge began three weeks earlier than in the previous year.
Major retailers such as The Warehouse, Glassons, and Hallensteins have already initiated recruitment for Christmas casual positions. As a result, businesses that delay the hiring process could find themselves at a disadvantage in securing experienced and capable workers.
Recruitment strategies
In a hiring environment where demand can outpace supply, ZEIL recommends businesses refine their recruitment practices. This includes being specific and realistic about role requirements, compensation, and necessary support such as transport or accommodation, as ambiguity can slow down the hiring process. Additionally, job seekers increasingly expect recruitment processes to be quick, clear, and accessible via mobile devices, and companies risk losing candidates if the application process is overly time-consuming.
Commenting on onboarding practices, ZEIL emphasises that a rushed or incomplete induction can lead to higher churn among new hires. Comprehensive onboarding, it is suggested, can help convert short-term staff into longer term employees who add value to the business.
Employer and candidate sentiment
Although overall economic confidence remains cautious, the signs from this spring's recruitment activity provide insight into a gradually strengthening outlook for both employers and job seekers. The surveyed increase in job advertisements and early indications of applicant enthusiasm suggest that businesses are preparing for growth, even if with some caution concerning market conditions going into the summer season.
The level of preparedness among companies for the influx of summer demand will be important in determining their ability to meet staffing requirements as business activity picks up in the coming months.
