Waitematā Local Board Area Demographics and Population Trends
The Waitematā Local Board Area is a dynamic region covering 19.42 square kilometers (7.50 sq mi). As a key residential and commercial hub, it is characterized by a high population density and a diverse community. As of June 2025, the estimated population reached 88,900, resulting in a density of 4,578 people per square kilometer.
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Population Growth and Trends
Over the last two decades, the population of Waitematā has experienced various shifts. According to the 2023 New Zealand census, the population stood at 81,546. This represented a slight decrease of 1,320 people (1.6%) from the 2018 census, though it remained 5.7% higher than the 2013 figures.
The gender distribution is nearly equal, with 40,347 males and 40,500 females, while 702 individuals identified as other genders. Additionally, 9.8% of the population identified as LGBTIQ+. The region is notably younger than the national average, with a median age of 33.3 years compared to the national median of 38.1 years.
Age Distribution
- Under 15 years: 7,206 people (8.8%)
- 15 to 29 years: 26,775 people (32.8%)
- 30 to 64 years: 39,333 people (48.2%)
- 65 years or older: 8,232 people (10.1%)
Key Facts
- Estimated Population (June 2025): 88,900
- Population Density: 4,578 people per km²
- Median Age: 33.3 years
- Overseas Born: 47.7% (significantly higher than the 28.8% national average)
- Median Income: $51,300 (higher than the $41,500 national average)
- Higher Education: 49.1% of residents aged 15+ hold a bachelor's degree or higher
Cultural and Linguistic Diversity
Waitematā is a multicultural area where residents may identify with more than one ethnicity. The largest ethnic group is European (Pākehā) at 59.9%, followed by Asian residents at 31.5%. Other significant groups include Māori (8.4%), Pasifika (5.8%), and Middle Eastern, Latin American, and African New Zealanders (MELAA) at 4.8%. A small percentage (1.6%) identified as other, including those who listed their ethnicity simply as "New Zealander".
This diversity is reflected in the languages spoken. While English is the primary language (95.9%), 32.3% of the population speaks other languages. Māori language is spoken by 2.1%, Samoan by 1.0%, and New Zealand Sign Language is known by 0.3%. Approximately 1.2% of the population reported speaking no language, often due to being too young to talk.
Religious Affiliations
A majority of the population (57.9%) reported having no religion. Among those with religious affiliations, the breakdown is as follows:
- Christian: 25.4%
- Hindu: 4.1%
- Buddhist: 2.4%
- Islam: 2.0%
- New Age: 0.5%
- Māori religious beliefs: 0.4%
- Jewish: 0.4%
- Other religions: 1.8%
Additionally, 5.4% of residents did not answer the census question regarding religion.
Economic and Educational Profile
The workforce in Waitematā is highly educated and earns above the national average. Nearly half of the population aged 15 and over (49.1%) hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Another 34.3% possess a post-high school certificate or diploma, while 16.5% hold exclusively high school qualifications.
Economically, the median income is $51,300, surpassing the national median of $41,500. High earners are more prevalent here, with 21.8% of the population earning over $100,000, compared to 12.1% nationally.
Employment Status (Ages 15+)
- Full-time employment: 56.0% (41,631 people)
- Part-time employment: 13.8% (10,245 people)
- Unemployed: 4.0% (2,937 people)
| Year | Population | Annual Growth Rate (±% p.a.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 62,928 | — |
| 2013 | 77,136 | +2.95% |
| 2018 | 82,866 | +1.44% |
| 2023 | 81,546 | −0.32% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current estimated population of the Waitematā Local Board Area?
As of June 2025, the estimated population is 88,900 people.
How does the median age in Waitematā compare to the rest of New Zealand?
The median age in Waitematā is 33.3 years, which is younger than the national median age of 38.1 years.
What percentage of the population was born overseas?
Approximately 47.7% of the population was born overseas, which is significantly higher than the national average of 28.8%.
What are the primary ethnic groups in the region?
The primary ethnic groups are European (Pākehā) at 59.9% and Asian at 31.5%, followed by Māori (8.4%) and Pasifika (5.8%).
How does the income in Waitematā compare to the national average?
The median income in Waitematā is $51,300, which is higher than the national median income of $41,500.