Key Takeaways
- Record numbers of people are struggling to find employment on the East Coast, with some sending out hundreds of applications without success.
- Unemployment has risen by 78% over the past three years, with 7300 people currently unemployed in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay.
- Jobseekers are facing significant challenges, including constant rejection, stigma, and financial struggles.
- Social service providers are working to support those in need, but are concerned about the long-term implications of the current situation.
- The government is being urged to provide more support and prioritize health, education, and social services to address the root causes of unemployment.
Introduction to the Issue
The East Coast is currently experiencing a significant surge in unemployment, with record numbers of people struggling to find employment. Despite sending out hundreds of applications, many jobseekers are facing rejection and frustration. Leilani Kea, a 22-year-old with an Arts degree, is one example of someone who has applied for "300 or more" jobs this year without success. She has expressed the emotional toll of constantly amending her CV and jumping through hoops during the recruitment process, only to be met with rejection or no response at all.
The Struggle to Find Employment
Kea’s experience is not unique, and many others are facing similar challenges. Central Hawke’s Bay family services agency Te Taiwhenua o Tamatea has recorded a surge in requests from those desperate for work. Support worker Bevan Thompson has expressed sympathy for Kea, describing her as "young, motivated, keen as". Thompson has also highlighted the stigma surrounding jobseekers, noting that many people assume those on benefits are not actively seeking work. However, this is not the case, and many individuals are struggling to make ends meet despite their best efforts.
The Rise of Unemployment
According to a labour force survey by Stats NZ, unemployment has risen by 78% over the past three years on the East Coast. In 2023, 4100 people were unemployed in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay, but this figure has increased to 7300 in 2025. This significant rise in unemployment is having a major impact on individuals and families, with many turning to KiwiSaver and credit cards to meet weekly necessities. Budgeting service Weave Hawke’s Bay has seen a "huge increase in the amount of debt" with clients, with roughly $15 million of debt from the first quarter of the year.
The Impact on Individuals and Families
The impact of unemployment on individuals and families cannot be overstated. Kerry Henderson, the manager for budgeting service Weave Hawke’s Bay, has expressed concern about the long-term implications of the current situation. Without the right prioritization and support in health, education, and social services, Henderson believes that the situation will only continue to deteriorate. The debt accumulated by individuals and families is also a major concern, with many struggling to make ends meet and turning to credit cards and other forms of debt to get by.
Government Response
Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston has acknowledged that it is a challenging time for jobseekers. However, her response has been to encourage jobseekers to look at moving towns, rather than providing additional support or resources to address the root causes of unemployment. This response has been met with criticism, with many arguing that the government needs to do more to support those in need. Upston’s focus on growing the economy and ensuring that businesses have the confidence to take on more staff is seen as insufficient, given the scale and complexity of the issue.
Conclusion
The current situation on the East Coast is a major concern, with record numbers of people struggling to find employment. The impact on individuals and families is significant, with many facing financial struggles, stigma, and emotional distress. Social service providers are working to support those in need, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of unemployment. The government must prioritize health, education, and social services, and provide additional support and resources to those in need. Only by working together can we hope to address the current situation and create a more positive and supportive environment for jobseekers.