As a modern country with a well-developed economy, New Zealand has a strong manufacturing and services sectors as well as a highly efficient export-oriented agricultural sector.

Close Ties with Australia

Over recent years, government restructuring has seen the introduction of new legislation that has created what is called the "Closer Economic Relations" agreement with Australia (our biggest export market).

This has ensured an efficient and steady flow of goods and services across both economies, and created opportunities for New Zealand manufacturers and entrepreneurs to serve both the Australian and New Zealand economies as domestic markets, in effect

Privitisation Has Lead To Greater Efficiency

The statutory right of unions to represent all workers was also removed and individual contracts introduced if such an agreement suited both parties. The Government corporatised and then privatised most state utilities. These have included: Telecom Corporation, New Zealand Post, NZ Forestry Corporation, Air New Zealand, State Insurance, Government Printing, Tranzrail and several ports.

This government sale of assets has created lean and efficient organizations

Strong Growth

Energy-based industries, mining, horticulture, forestry and tourism have expanded rapidly over the last decade. Business confidence remains strong, with most businesses confident about their own short term future.

Lowest rate of unemployment in the developed world

New Zealand’s high level of growth during the past few years has put a strain on the labour market, and has increased skills shortages across a wide range of industries and sectors.

New Zealand currently has the lowest unemployment the country has seen for nearly two decades, and the lowest rate of unemployment amongst all developed countries. To see the latest figures regarding employment, click here

This situation has been created from more "new" New Zealanders from the high levels of inward migration, as well as more New Zealanders returning home and fewer choosing to leave to work overseas after the events of September 11, 2001.

The combined numbers of first time migrants and Kiwis returning home since the attack on America has lead to a dramatic increase in house sales and prices in recent years.

With an expected tightening of Government immigration policies, migrant numbers are forecast to fall which may soften the domestic economy.