Relocation specialists, Conroy Group, are reporting a noticeable shift in trans-Tasman moving trends, with growing numbers of New Zealanders looking to return home from Australia and fewer considering a move across the ditch compared with the same period last year.

With 15 branches operating across New Zealand and Australia, Conroy Group handles thousands of relocations each year and is uniquely positioned to observe migration trends as they emerge. After witnessing a significant increase in New Zealanders relocating to Australia over the past two years, the company says recent enquiry data suggests the tide may be beginning to turn.

Internal data from Conroy Group shows enquiries for relocations from Australia to New Zealand have increased by 64% year-on-year, while enquiries from New Zealanders planning moves to Australia are down by 32% over the same period.

The trend comes as official migration data also indicates the long-running flow of New Zealanders to Australia may be easing. Statistics New Zealand recently reported that the annual net migration loss to Australia has reduced compared with the previous year, driven by an increase in arrivals from Australia to New Zealand.

Conroy Group General Manager, Fiona Conroy, says the company’s frontline view of the relocation market is revealing a change in sentiment among many Kiwis living abroad.

“We’ve spent the last few years helping large numbers of New Zealanders relocate to Australia in search of new opportunities, higher wages and a different lifestyle,” says Conroy.

“What we’re seeing now is a growing number of people looking to come home. While Australia remains an attractive destination, many returning clients tell us the reality hasn’t always matched their expectations. Rising living costs, housing affordability pressures, challenges securing childcare, and a desire to be closer to family are all common reasons we’re hearing.”

Conroy says migration decisions are often influenced by a combination of economic and personal factors, and recent conditions on both sides of the Tasman appear to be contributing to changing attitudes.

“People make relocation decisions based on more than just income. Quality of life, community connections, housing costs, career opportunities and family support networks all play a significant role. Increasingly, we’re hearing from Kiwis who believe New Zealand offers a better balance of those factors than it did a few years ago.”

While Fiona says it is too early to call it a major reversal in migration patterns, she believes the trend is worth watching.

“As relocation specialists, we get a unique view of where people are moving and why. The increase in enquiries from Kiwis wanting to return home is one of the most significant shifts we’ve seen in recent years.

“Whether people are moving across the Tasman or across the globe, Conroy Group has the experience, network and expertise to make the process seamless. But it’s encouraging to see signs that more New Zealanders are feeling optimistic about building their future back home.”

Founded in 1972, Conroy Group operates throughout New Zealand and Australia and provides international relocation services to destinations worldwide, managing household, corporate and commercial moves across more than 150 countries.