Union density among workers aged 15-44 has been steadily increasing since 2016, particularly since the Coalition took power in late 2023.
Union membership as a percentage of paid employees aged 15-44 has been steadily increasing since 2016. Union density among NZ workers aged 15-44 rose from 13.9% in June 2016 to 17.2% in June 2025. There was a significant increase after the Coalition was elected in 2023.