Waitematā Demographics: Population Trends and Socioeconomic Profile
The Waitematā region has experienced significant growth and diversification over the last two decades. As a key area served by the Waitematā District Health Board (DHB), the region's demographic shifts reflect broader national trends while maintaining distinct local characteristics in terms of ethnicity, education, and economic standing.
Population Growth and Trends
Since 2006, the population of the Waitematā area has seen a steady upward trajectory. According to census data, the population grew from 481,614 in 2006 to 586,335 by 2018. This represents a total increase of 104,721 people, or 21.7%, over a twelve-year period.
The growth accelerated between 2013 and 2018, with the population increasing by 60,780 people (11.6%) in just five years. This growth is distributed across 193,440 households.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Total Population (2018): 586,335 people.
- Gender Ratio: 0.97 males per female (288,216 males and 298,119 females).
- Median Age: 36.7 years, slightly lower than the national average of 37.4.
- International Background: 39.3% of residents were born overseas, significantly higher than the national average of 27.1%.
- Economic Standing: Median income is $35,700, exceeding the national median of $31,800.
Age and Gender Distribution
The population is characterized by a strong presence of working-age adults. The largest age bracket is those aged 30 to 64, making up 46.4% (272,202 people) of the total population. Other age distributions include:
- Under 15 years: 19.8% (116,286 people)
- 15 to 29 years: 20.3% (118,899 people)
- 65 years or older: 13.5% (78,948 people)
Ethnicity and Cultural Diversity
Waitematā is a multicultural hub with a diverse ethnic composition. Because residents may identify with more than one ethnicity, the percentages reflect a broad cultural spectrum. European/Pākehā residents make up 65.3% of the population, followed by Asian residents at 24.3%. Other significant groups include Māori (10.1%), Pacific peoples (8.6%), and other ethnicities (3.4%).
Religious Affiliation
Religious diversity is also evident in the region. A plurality of the population (49.5%) reported having no religion. Among those who do identify with a faith, Christianity is the most common at 36.0%, followed by Hinduism (3.0%), Islam (1.6%), and Buddhism (1.5%). Other religions account for 2.5%.
Education and Economic Indicators
The region demonstrates a high level of educational attainment and economic performance. Among residents aged 15 and older, 28.4% (133,344 people) hold a bachelor's degree or higher, while 12.6% (59,322 people) have no formal qualifications.
Financially, the region outperforms national medians. The median income stands at $35,700. Furthermore, 20.9% of the population earns over $70,000, compared to 17.2% across New Zealand.
Employment Status
For those aged 15 and older, the employment landscape is dominated by full-time work. The breakdown is as follows:
- Full-time employment: 51.7% (243,117 people)
- Part-time employment: 14.4% (67,515 people)
- Unemployed: 3.6% (16,836 people)
| Year | Population | Annual Growth Rate (±% p.a.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 481,614 | — |
| 2013 | 525,555 | +1.26% |
| 2018 | 586,335 | +2.21% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much has the Waitematā population grown since 2006?
The population increased by 104,721 people, which is a 21.7% increase from the 481,614 residents recorded in 2006 to 586,335 in 2018.
Is the Waitematā population more diverse than the national average?
Yes, particularly regarding birth origin. 39.3% of people in Waitematā were born overseas, compared to 27.1% nationally.
What is the most common age group in the region?
The most common age group is adults aged 30 to 64, who represent 46.4% of the population.
How does the median income in Waitematā compare to the rest of New Zealand?
The median income in Waitematā is $35,700, which is higher than the national median income of $31,800.
What is the educational profile of the adult population?
Approximately 28.4% of residents aged 15 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, while 12.6% have no formal qualifications.