Christchurch population bounces back

Christchurch’s population has risen above pre-quake levels for the first time as the recovery gathers steam.

Latest Statistics New Zealand population estimates show that while there was a net loss of 20,000 soon after the earthquakes, the rebuild and need for skilled workers have drawn people back to the city.

Christchurch's population has risen above pre-quake levels.

For the first time in seven years, the population is back to pre-quake levels and even slightly higher than what it was before the Canterbury earthquake sequence began in September 2010. Christchurch's estimated population is now 381,500. 

This is due to a natural population increase, which takes into account births and deaths, as well as positive net migration.

Statistics NZ migration information shows that a growing number of New Zealand citizens have made the decision to return to the city, along with migrants from overseas.

In the year to June 2017, there was a net gain of 5600 migrants arriving in the city, including returning Kiwis.

For the first time since records began in 1992, there have been more New Zealand citizens arriving in Christchurch from overseas than leaving to go overseas – a net gain of 46 Kiwis making their home in the city in the 12 months to 30 June 2017.

Since the 2010-2011 earthquakes, the Philippines, India, China and Britain have been the largest source of migrants to Christchurch, including 5100 migrants from the Philippines between 2011 and 2017.

The area that experienced the greatest decrease in population following the earthquakes was the residential red zone, especially along the Avon River from the Four Avenues to the Estuary, as well as parts of the Port Hills and near the Kaiapoi River. These populations all decreased by over 1700 people. Burwood, Cathedral Square and Kaiapoi East lost over half of their 2006 population.

However, population growth occurred in the areas on the outskirts of the city with Aidanfield and Yaldhurst doubling their 2006 population.

Outside Christchurch, Rolleston North West, Rolleston South West, Pegasus, Camside, and Lehmans also doubled their 2006 population.