New Zealand recorded a notable jump in permanent and long-term migration at the start of 2026, with the indicator rising to 4,460 in January, up from 3,600 in December 2025. The latest figures, updated on 12 March 2026, point to a solid month-on-month increase in net inflows of long-term residents.
The January 2026 level represents an increase of 860 compared with the previous month’s reading, highlighting renewed momentum in longer-term arrivals or reduced departures, or a combination of both. While the underlying drivers are not detailed in the latest release, the shift suggests strengthening migration dynamics heading into the new year.
For policymakers, businesses and investors, the January data will be watched closely as an early signal of labour market support, housing demand, and broader economic activity in New Zealand, following the softer reading at the end of 2025.