New Zealand faces declining fertility and rising mortality

New Zealand is facing significant demographic shifts characterized by declining fertility rates and rising mortality. Recent data indicates that births reached their lowest level since 2002, with the fertility rate falling to 1.51 per woman, which is 28% below the level required to maintain a stable population.

While the total population grew by 0.7% to 5.373 million due to net immigration, the growth rate has slowed significantly compared to previous years. Rural regions are particularly affected, with some areas experiencing population declines or stagnation due to aging populations and low birth rates.

Mortality rates also showed an upward trend, increasing by 1.9% in the year ending June 2026. This brings death rates to 3.8% above pre-pandemic levels. Some observers have called for investigations into these health trends and their potential causes.