New Zealand has a thriving economy with many industries contributing to its growth. According to The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the biggest industry in New Zealand is the service sector, which employs nearly 70% of the workforce and contributes about 70% of the country’s GDP. The service sector includes a variety of industries such as tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and education.
Tourism is a significant contributor to the service sector and the New Zealand economy. The country’s beautiful landscapes, beaches, and wildlife make it a popular destination for tourists worldwide. In 2019, tourism contributed around $17.2 billion to New Zealand’s GDP and employed over 230,000 people.
The hospitality industry is also significant and employs over 136,000 people, contributing nearly $12 billion to the New Zealand economy. New Zealand has a vibrant food and beverage industry with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving local and international cuisine.
Healthcare is another vital industry in New Zealand and provides stable employment opportunities. The healthcare industry includes hospitals, clinics, aged care facilities, and medical research facilities. The healthcare industry employs over 150,000 people.
Education is also an important contributor to the service sector, with several universities and tertiary institutions providing world-class education. The education industry employs over 118,000 people and contributes over $6 billion to the New Zealand economy.
In conclusion, the service sector in New Zealand is the biggest industry, offering a range of career opportunities across various industries such as tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and education. These industries contribute significantly to the country’s economy and provide stable employment opportunities.