The South Island drove the country’s employment growth with a 4.6% increase year-on-year, and a 1.2% monthly growth, according to the report.

It attributed the continued growth in job openings across the country to a surge in casual positions, which went up 18.3% year-on-year.

Casual roles also increased 3.3% when compared with December, and went up 0.7% month-on-month, according to the findings.

Neil Webster, Employment Hero General Manager NZ, said the current situation stems from global uncertainty felt by business owners. 

“While it is positive to see employment growth holding up in the face of increasing global pressures, it is clear that employers are seeking out workers for casual and part-time positions rather than full-time work. This comes amid high levels of uncertainty and an unclear economic outlook,” Webster said in a statement.