Taranaki Young Job Seekers Face Mounting Challenges in Tight Labour Market

Two young residents of Taranaki are highlighting the difficulties facing their generation in finding employment, despite actively seeking work and participating in job-readiness programs, as the region struggles with a declining number of job vacancies.

Isaac Murray, 23, reports applying for at least one job daily, while 21-year-old Ash Tolland is working with a Work and Income career coach to obtain his driver’s license, hoping to expand his employment options. Their experiences come after recent government comments urging young people to actively seek work and changes to unemployment benefit eligibility. Taranaki currently has the highest rate of 15-24 year olds classified as NEET – not in employment, education, or training – in the country.

Tolland described a highly competitive job market with limited opportunities, particularly in his desired field of retail. “There’s an incredible amount of competition, because of how few jobs there really are around here,” he said, noting the prevalence of agricultural and dairy industry positions. He anticipates potentially needing to relocate to find work, a prospect he finds disheartening. The lack of employment opportunities can contribute to a “brain drain” as young people move elsewhere for career prospects. Tolland also expressed disappointment with recent public statements about young job seekers, stating, “The majority of younger people are actually very, very, very eager to work. It’s just a matter of there are very few opportunities for that now and realistically, we kind of don’t have a choice but to be on a benefit.”

Recent Trade Me job data indicates a 5.5 percent decrease in advertised vacancies in Taranaki compared to the same period last year, with healthcare and caregiving representing the largest share of entry-level positions. Murray, who has been searching for work for two years, emphasized the sheer volume of applicants for each role. Work and Income New Zealand offers resources and support for job seekers, including financial assistance and career guidance.

Officials have stated they are continuing to monitor the employment situation in Taranaki and are committed to supporting young people in their job search efforts.