New Zealand Unemployment Rate — 2026 Data, Trend & Forecast
New Zealand's unemployment rate was 5.30% in March 2026, up from 5.28% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 5.10%.
New Zealand's unemployment rate stands at 5.30% as of March 2026. The unemployment rate currently sits at 5.30% (up from 5.28% in the prior month). Across the tracked window it has ranged between 3.30% and 9.80%, and is 0.20% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 226 economies tracked on this platform, New Zealand ranks #112 on unemployment rate by latest value. It rose from 5.28% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 5.10%.
What's driving it
Joblessness tracks the business cycle, labour-force participation and structural shifts in industry, and tends to lag changes in output.
Recent readings
| Period | Unemployment rate |
|---|---|
| Mar 2026 | 5.30% |
| Dec 2025 | 5.28% |
| Sep 2025 | 5.30% |
| Jun 2025 | 5.20% |
| Mar 2025 | 5.10% |
| Dec 2024 | 4.75% |
| Sep 2024 | 4.90% |
| Jun 2024 | 4.70% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Unemployment Rate in New Zealand in 2026?
New Zealand's unemployment rate was 5.30% in March 2026, up from 5.28% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 5.10%.
Is the unemployment rate rising or falling in New Zealand?
It rose in the latest reading — 5.30% in March 2026 versus 5.28% a month earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is unemployment rate?
It measures the share of the labour force that is without work but actively seeking a job.