‘Economic refugees’ flee from New Zealand as cost-of-living crisis deepens

Once recognized by the world as a picturesque and progressive safe haven, New Zealand’s frail economy has pushed many of its citizens to leave the country.

Amid high prices, steep interest rates and elevated unemployment, the government recently estimated that 131,200 people fled the country in the past 12 months through June, a record high. Among those, about 80,200 were citizens, nearly 70% higher compared to the year ended June 2019, before the pandemic.