Job applications in New Zealand surge amid public sector cuts: reports

Job applications in New Zealand surged to 112% amid job cuts in the public sector, according to reports.

Radio New Zealand, citing recruitment firm Robert Walters, reported that job applications across the country more than doubled in March and April compared to the same period last year.

In Auckland, there was a 172% increase in job applications, according to the report. Robert Walters' Australian offices also reported a "substantial surge" in applications from New Zealanders.

Bridget Clark, Wellington senior director, attributed the surge to not enough jobs in the capital, which is prompting individuals to find work elsewhere.

The surge in job applications come amid job cuts in the public sector as the government seeks to cut spending.

"If the trend of job cuts persists, we may face a future where there is a severe shortage of skilled workers to fill public sector roles in Wellington," Clark said as quoted by RNZ. "This is undoubtedly a disconcerting prospect."

Declining job ads

The major surge in job applications also came as job ads in New Zealand are on a decline.

SEEK's NZ Employment Dashboard revealed a four per cent decline in national job ads month-on-month, and a 0.4% dip in March.

Rob Clark, country manager at SEEK NZ, said in March that job ads for public sector roles "declined to the greatest degree" due to the government's spending-reduction measures.

On the other hand, applications per job posting saw a five per cent monthly increase in March, according to SEEK NZ.

"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 previously said.