Industries in New Zealand

'Because there's more to New Zealand than sheep.'

New Zealand's economy is characterised by strong primary industries like agriculture, forestry, and fishing, a growing goods-producing sector, and a service sector that includes tourism and education. Major industries contributing to the economy include agriculture, forestry, fishing, mining, manufacturing, construction, and retail. 

Agriculture Industry in New Zealand

In New Zealand, agriculture plays a significant role, contributing 5.1% to the national GDP and employing 5.9% of the workforce. Specifically, the primary industry sector (agriculture, forestry, and fisheries) is a major driver of export earnings and strongly influences rural and urban economies. It generates 40% of NZ's merchandise export earnings and 12% of the gross domestic product. New Zealand is the world's largest dairy and sheep meat exporter, which is evident as you drive past never-ending sheep and cow fields. A subindustry, horticulture, covers 121,000ha of New Zealand. The industry is worth NZ$5 billion, including domestic sales and exports, including sales of wine, kiwifruit, and summer fruits. It also provides seasonal jobs perfect for backpackers.

Tourism Industry in New Zealand

New Zealand's tourism sector is a significant part of the economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. In 2023, tourism generated $17 billion directly and $11.7 billion indirectly, directly employing 182,727 people. The industry encompasses various sectors like accommodation, food services, and transportation. One in 11 New Zealanders works in the tourism industry, second only to dairy farming in terms of foreign exchange earnings. T 

New Zealand's economy is surprisingly diverse and robust, with several industries making significant contributions. Here are some fun facts about New Zealand's industries:

• 1. Manufacturing Powerhouse: 
  • New Zealand is a strong exporter of high-value manufactured goods, with over 60% of its total exports.
  • China and Australia are major destinations for New Zealand's manufactured exports, with over 20% and 16% respectively.
  • Aluminium production, food processing, metal fabrication, and wood/paper products are prominent manufacturing industries.
  2. Construction and Real Estate: 
  • The construction industry significantly contributes to the GDP, producing 6.3% of the real GDP and employing around 10.7% of the workforce.
  • The proportion of Māori-owned construction businesses is increasing, reaching 14% in the 2021 financial year.
  3. Digital Technologies: 
  • The digital technologies sector is a rapidly growing industry, contributing $7 billion to the GDP in 2021.
  • Since 2016, the sector has grown at an annual rate of 10.4%, compared to the wider economy's 5.1% growth.
  4. Renewable Energy: 
  • New Zealand generates around 88% of its electricity from renewable sources, making it a leader in green energy production.
  • However, only 30% of industrial processes and transportation rely on clean energy, presenting an opportunity for growth in this area.
  5. Food and Beverage Leader: 
  • New Zealand is a world leader in food production and exports, providing millions of people with premium food and beverage products.
  • The country is known for its high-quality produce, dairy products, and wine.