Job ads decline by 0.4% in New Zealand in March

Human resources roles in New Zealand saw a double-digit increase in job postings in March — despite overall job ad volumes declining by 0.4%, according to SEEK NZ.

The HR and Recruitment sector saw job ads go up 15%, as well as other professional services roles such as Consulting and Strategy (12%).

It comes despite the decline in overall job postings across the country, led by decreases in sectors such as Education and Training (-12%), Healthcare and Medical (-5%), as well as Government and Defence (-3%) roles.

"In March, Public Sector roles declined to the greatest degree, which we know is due to a reduction in spending by ministries and agencies," said Rob Clark, Country Manager SEEK NZ, in a statement. "However, roles within Professional Services and Construction are experiencing notable growth."

Source: SEEK NZ Employment Report - March

Overall, job ads declined by 0.4% in March, while job volumes dropped by -27% year-on-year.

"Job ad levels have been declining steadily since 2022, but it appears as though the rate of decline has slowed," Clark said.

Gisborne reported the biggest drop in job ads with -27%, while Marlborough and Taranaki reported the highest increases with 19% each.

Source: SEEK NZ Employment Report - March

Applications per job ad

Meanwhile, applications per job ad did not go up in March, but there was a notable increase of applications for Retail and Consumer Products roles with 12%.

By location, six of the 15 regions reported an increase in job applications.

"Applications per job ad remain at extremely high levels, which is good news, but does present challenges for hirers to shortlist and identify the right candidates," Clark said.

"It has never been more important for hirers to have good shortlisting systems in place and supporting clients with this challenge is something we are really focused on at SEEK."