Job Seekers Explore Recession-Proof Opportunities in New Zealand

Job seekers in New Zealand face a challenging employment landscape as unemployment rates rise and job searches stretch for months. Despite these difficulties, certain sectors are proving to be more resilient, with roles that experts consider “recession-proof.” According to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, job advertisements fell by 7.6 percent in the year leading up to the June quarter, a notable improvement from the 21.7 percent decline seen in the previous quarter.

Resilient Job Sectors Amid Economic Challenges

While overall job listings have decreased, demand for positions in healthcare and primary industries has shown growth. Recruiters confirm that job vacancies in these fields remain relatively stable. Data from Seek indicates that the most advertised roles include sales account managers (3,533 listings), business development managers (just over 2,500), accountants (just over 2,300), and electricians (just over 2,100). Additionally, there is a strong demand for nurses, support workers, administration staff, sales assistants, and chefs.

Blair Chapman, a senior economist at Seek, noted that demographic trends are likely to sustain hiring in healthcare. “With an estimated 7.5 percent of Kiwis now over the age of 75, and another 9 percent over 65, support workers and nurses will likely remain in demand as the need for care grows,” Chapman stated. The recovery of tourism is also contributing to job growth in hospitality, with increased visitor numbers, particularly from Australia, driving demand for chefs and retail workers.

Hayley Pickard, managing director of Fortitude Group, highlighted that jobs in healthcare and aged care maintain consistent strength, along with roles in technology and education. However, she pointed out that construction, engineering, and manufacturing sectors have faced slowdowns due to economic pressures.

Unexpected Areas of Job Stability

Some sectors that may not be immediately associated with resilience during downturns include utilities and mining. Gareth Kiernan, chief forecaster at Infometrics, explained that these industries have historically weathered economic challenges. “Households and businesses will always need electricity, water, and telecommunications. Similarly, mining operations tend to continue even in weak economies, especially when global demand for commodities like gold or coal remains robust,” Kiernan elaborated.

He further emphasized that healthcare, social assistance, and education sectors are among those least affected by economic cycles. Interestingly, downturns can lead to increased demand for tertiary education as many young individuals choose to delay entering a weak job market. Parts of agriculture and food manufacturing also tend to hold up if export demand remains strong. While central government roles have experienced cutbacks, they still show relative stability compared to the private sector.

Despite the current economic challenges, some employers are beginning to express cautious optimism. Pickard remarked that she is observing a gradual return of confidence. “I’m slowly noticing clients with an optimistic outlook for 2026. Many want to weather 2025, keep the lights on, and then look to the future with renewed confidence,” she stated.

As New Zealand navigates this complex job market, certain sectors stand out as beacons of hope for job seekers, providing stability and growth opportunities even as the broader economy faces uncertainty.