After months of economic uncertainty and cautious hiring activity, the latest indicators suggest a welcome shift in Auckland’s employment landscape. According to a recent survey by the Auckland Business Chamber, nearly half of employers in the region are planning to hire within the next 12 months. This marks a notable improvement in sentiment compared to the tentative tone that has defined much of the past year.

While the market isn’t entirely out of the woods, business confidence appears to be on the rise. Fewer employers are expressing negative outlooks, and there’s been a noticeable decline in those forecasting stagnant or falling revenue. Encouragingly, this uplift in confidence is being matched by action, with businesses beginning to re-expand their teams—particularly in roles geared towards growth.

New Zealand’s economy also received a modest but meaningful boost, with gross domestic product (GDP) increasing by 0.7% in the December 2024 quarter. This growth, while not explosive, signals an upward trend, with 11 out of 16 industries reporting gains. The strongest performers include rental, hiring, and real estate services, along with retail trade, accommodation, and health care.

The rebound appears to be driven by a combination of factors—chief among them, increased consumer spending and a resurgence in tourism. As international visitor numbers continue to rise, so too does demand across tourism-related sectors like hospitality and transport. These changes are creating renewed momentum in the labour market and generating a sense of cautious optimism among employers.

"Nearly half of employers in Auckland are planning to hire new staff this year."

In a recent live stream update, Frog Recruitment NZ Managing Director Shannon Barlow shared her reflections on these positive trends and what they mean for employers and job seekers across the region. Speaking with energy and optimism, Shannon acknowledged the improved outlook with a note of cautious realism.

“So according to a recent Auckland Business Chamber survey, nearly half of employers in Auckland are planning to hire new staff this year. Fantastic news. And it's a promising sign that although the market is still finding its feet, the worst may be behind us,” said Shannon.

At Frog Recruitment, these trends aren’t just theoretical—they’re visible in day-to-day activity. Shannon explained, “We're seeing this shift firsthand, so with more of our clients beginning to rebuild their teams and hire for growth-focused roles. It’s a cautious but encouraging step towards a more buoyant job market.”

This shift marks a significant turning point. After prolonged periods of hiring freezes, restructures, and resource constraints, employers are regaining confidence and looking ahead. Businesses that have spent much of the past two years focused on survival are now repositioning themselves for growth. This includes investing in people, expanding skill sets within teams, and preparing for increased demand in the months ahead.

Shannon also highlighted the sectors leading the recovery. The most notable growth has come from industries tied to property, retail, healthcare, and tourism—each benefiting from broader economic tailwinds and shifting consumer behaviours.

There’s also been a drop in pessimism, with businesses becoming less fearful of stagnation and more open to strategic investment. While inflation and cost pressures remain significant—76% of employers still expect rising costs over the next year—the prevailing sentiment is no longer defined by doom and gloom. Instead, it’s one of resilience and readiness.

For candidates, this means opportunities are beginning to re-emerge. While competition remains high, job seekers can expect greater volume and variety in job listings, particularly in customer-facing, operational, and specialist roles. It’s a prime time to refresh CVs, upskill, and prepare for new possibilities.

What Employers Should Focus on Now

With market conditions showing signs of stabilisation, now is the time for businesses to act strategically to capitalise on the recovery and position themselves for long-term growth. Here are several key focus areas for employers over the next 12 months:

1. Be proactive in workforce planning.
Rather than waiting for the market to fully rebound, employers should begin identifying skill gaps, succession plans, and future hiring needs now. Proactive workforce planning ensures readiness and avoids the scramble when demand increases.

2. Invest in employer branding.
With hiring activity increasing, competition for top talent is also heating up. Businesses must put forward a strong employee value proposition—highlighting flexibility, culture, development opportunities, and stability—to attract and retain quality candidates.

3. Be prepared to offer flexibility.
Workplace expectations have evolved, and flexibility is no longer a nice-to-have. Whether it’s hybrid working, compressed hours, or adaptive leave policies, offering flexibility is now a key differentiator in talent attraction.

4. Focus on retention as much as recruitment.
While hiring is important, keeping current employees engaged and supported is equally critical. Regular check-ins, clear career pathways, wellbeing initiatives, and strong internal communication will help maintain morale and reduce turnover risk.

5. Stay responsive to economic conditions.
Although confidence is improving, market volatility still exists. Employers should build agility into their strategies—balancing permanent hires with temporary or contract staff where appropriate and remaining open to shifting demands.

6. Leverage growth sectors.
Industries such as healthcare, hospitality, property, and retail are showing the strongest signs of growth. Employers operating in or aligned with these sectors may find greater ease in hiring, as well as more room for business expansion.

Ultimately, the shift in sentiment and hiring intention represents a critical opportunity for businesses that are ready to move with the market. As conditions improve, those who plan ahead, remain adaptable, and invest in their people will be best placed to thrive in the months ahead.