The number of people leaving New Zealand has hit record levels under National – a clear vote of no confidence in Christopher Luxon’s Government.

The latest statistics show 73,400 New Zealand citizens left in the year to July 2025.

“Christopher Luxon promised to make things better, but instead he’s making it worse. More people than ever have given up hope of a life here and are packing up and leaving instead,” Labour finance and economy spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

“Far too many people are leaving because they can’t find secure work or afford the rising cost of living. Families are facing soaring costs, jobs are drying up, and people are losing confidence under this Government.

“Across New Zealand, families are seeing friends, children, and loved ones head offshore because they see no future here. Even the Prime Minister himself has admitted people are leaving because they cannot find opportunities here – and yet he has no plan to do anything about it.

“Instead, his Government is making things worse by cutting services we all rely on and handing out millions of dollars in tax breaks to property speculators and tobacco companies.

“That’s not the New Zealand any of us want – no one should have to move overseas just to get ahead.

“New Zealand cannot afford another three years of National. A Labour Government will be focused on rebuilding opportunity here at home while easing the pressure households are feeling right now, so everyone can see a future for themselves in New Zealand,” Barbara Edmonds said.