Silver Economy: Over-65s Contribute $9 Billion Annually to New Zealand’s GDP

A new NZIER study reveals that over-65s contribute nearly $9 billion a year in paid work, with projections showing a massive increase in senior participation over the next 50 years.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 15, 2026, 6:23 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Numbers: A 50-Year Transformation

The report, commissioned for the Office for Seniors, highlights that population ageing is occurring faster than previously modeled. It paints a picture of a massive structural shift in the labor market over the next half-century:

Current Workforce (2024): 217,400 people aged 65+ in paid work.

Projected Workforce (2074): 477,800 people aged 65+ in paid work.

Economic Value: Earnings from this demographic are projected to soar from $8.7 billion today to $50.2 billion by 2074.

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