Population hits 4.36 million

New Zealand’s estimated resident population increased 1.3 per cent (56,300) in the year ended 31st March, 2010, to reach 4,362,000, Statistics NZ has said.

This is the highest rate of population growth for a March year since 2004, when the population increased 1.6 per cent (65,400). In the March 2009 year, NZ’s population grew by 1.0 per cent (42,200).

The main contributor to growth during the March 2010 year was natural increase (excess of births over deaths).

“However, the higher population growth compared with previous years was due to fewer permanent and long-term departures resulting in increased net migration,” Population Statistics manager Denise McGregor said.

Natural increase contributed 35,300, up 600 on the previous March year.

Permanent and long-term arrivals exceeded departures by 21,000 in the latest year, up from a net migration gain of 7,500 in the March 2009 year.

At 31st March, 2010, half of the male population were over 35.5 years of age, and half of females were over 37.5 years of age.

Over the last 10 years, the median age has increased by 2.1 years for males and 2.6 years for females.

“The increases in median age particularly reflect population growth in the 45-69 year age groups,” Mrs McGregor said.