New data indicates 'job market start to lean towards employers': report
New Zealand's job market has seen a 54% increase in total applications in January, as signs point to employers returning to the driver's seat when it comes to employment.
Trade Me Jobs data released this week showed both advertised roles and the number of applications went up in January 2024.
"This year we may see the job market start to lean towards employers, with more people in the country trying to find work," said Trade Me Jobs spokesperson Patrick Cairns in a statement. "That means those looking for a new role will need to make sure their job profile and CV stands out."
In January, the following industries became the most popular for job seekers:
- Hospitality/ Tourism
- Retail
- Transportation
According to Cairns, the higher number of applications in January is a "massive jump after the Christmas period."
"This goes to show that as Kiwi return from the holiday break, they are looking for a new role to kick off the new year," Cairns said.
Salaries down in New Zealand
Meanwhile, average annual salary nationwide saw an overall drop of 3.6% in January, according to Trade Me Jobs.
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Most regions reported a decline in salaries, with Northland and Taranaki being the only ones to report an increase, with 1.1% and two per cent, respectively.
By region, Central Hawke's Bay saw the highest average salary across New Zealand with $78,100, overtaking Auckland.
"The top jobs in the Central Hawkes Bay are centred around construction and roading which pay over $150,000. While this signals that Hawke's Bay can compete with larger regions in terms of average salary, it's important to note that there are fewer job opportunities compared to Auckland. The diversity of available jobs in Auckland contributes to bringing down the average," Cairns said.
By roles, the following jobs reported the highest salaries offered:
- Construction and roading (projects and contracts management) - $122,342
- Engineering (Civil and structural) - $107,885
- Accounting (Accountants) - $93,904
"This data is similar to the trend we saw in 2023, indicating that many of the most well-paid roles revolve around the construction sector," Cairns said. "Kiwi employed as architects, consultants, or project managers show as having the highest salaries."