What MBIE's latest online job ad data means for employers

A close-up of a worker holding a white safety helmet, emphasizing safety and professionalism.

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has released the Online Job Advertisement March 2026 quarter report.


Some of the key findings include:


Hiring demand is strengthening


Online job ads grew 11.8% in the year to the March 2026 quarter.


This marked the third consecutive quarter of annual growth, after falling for 11 consecutive quarters.


Hiring activity increased across most industries


Online job ads grew across 8 out of 9 industries over the year.


Growth was led by Construction, Primary and Health Care industries.


Education saw the only fall.


All regions experienced ad growth


Online job ads grew in all 10 regions over the year.


Auckland recorded its first quarter of annual growth since September 2022.


All regions experienced ad growth


Online job ads grew in all 5 skill levels over the year.


The Unskilled skill level saw a 26% increase in online job ads over the year.



What This Means for Employers


1. Move quickly on great talent


The strongest candidates still have options.
Slow processes and delayed decisions continue to cost employers top-tier talent.


2. Be proactive, not reactive


The best hiring outcomes come from organisations already building talent pipelines, mapping key capability, and thinking ahead, not waiting until a vacancy becomes urgent.



3. Partner well


In a market that is shifting again, access matters. Working closely with the right recruitment partner gives you stronger market insight, faster access to talent, and a competitive advantage when securing high performers.

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