New Zealand migrant and tourist arrivals touch new records in April

Migrant and tourist arrivals in New Zealand touched new highs in April, offsetting weak revenues generated by dairy products, the country’s largest export product. The island nation in the South Pacific saw a net migration of 68,100 in the last one year ending in the month of April, an increase of nine percent to 124,700 compared to the previous year. On the other hand, departures fell by two percent to 55,600, as per figures released by Statistics New Zealand. Tourist arrivals rose by 11 percent to 3.27 million in the past one year until April. The growing population in New Zealand is contributing to its growth, as it brings in its wake more demand for services. All this has helped to counter a decline in agricultural revenues as dairy prices are expected to fall for the third successive season. Nevertheless, economists feel that the migration growth might fall as monthly figures indicate signals of stabilising. Dominick Stephens, Chief Economist with the Westpac Banking Corp, is of the view that migration has peaked. The net migration numbers are expected to decline going forward, as the Australian labour market, which is showing signs of revival, might attract more New Zealanders. In addition, the increasing number of students who came to New Zealand in recent years on temporary visas will be leaving the country. Auckland witnessed the largest influx, with migrant arrivals increasing by 10 percent to 52,870 in April this year. Canterbury saw arrivals rise by 5.8 percent to 12,898 while arrivals to Wellington surged by 12 percent to 9,200. Going ahead, New Zealand will be more affordable than before for Indian tourists. Students from India will also benefit as the universities there would be seeking more enrollments.