Statistics NZ said that the net gain of 1600 in April reflected more people arriving from around the world and fewer New Zealanders leaving.

There was a flood of migration to Australia after the Canterbury earthquakes, but that has been ebbing away, as many skilled migrants head over to NZ to help with the rebuild.

The latest net loss to Australia was well down on the recent high of 3600 recorded in September 2011.

On an annual basis, New Zealand had a net gain of 4800 migrants in the April 2013 year, compared with a net loss of 4000 in the April 2012 year.

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Now on sale, the June issue of the UK’s only magazine for downunder has some amazing insights on travel and emigration. The city guide to Sydney shows readers how they can live the dream in Australia’s cosmpolitan Harbour City, plus there are features on Hobart, Queensland’s Great Sunshine Way and Golden Bay in New Zealand’s South Island.

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Six out of the top 10 regions in Australia with the lowest unemployment rate were from NSW,according to a CommSec analysis from the Bureau of Statistics.

The unemployment rate was just 2.1 per cent in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the lowest in Australia, and down over
3.2% on last year.

“Regions close to Sydney, Perth and Brisbane are doing best in the job stakes but job-seekers are facing tougher times in Tasmania, in outer areas of Melbourne and in northern Adelaide,” CommSec chief economist Craig James said in an economic note.

Mr James added that NSW was fast becoming the lowest jobless state, snatching the mantle away from Western Australia, a reflection of a possible shift away from mining into other industries as the resources investment boom reaches its peak this year.

Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten announced a $3.5 million “practical and targeted measure” in the budget to help industry attract apprentices and workers in regional areas.

The Gillard Government will provide up to $6,500 for Australian families and $4,500 for individuals to move “beyond the big cities”, while increasing the cost of  457 visas for skilled migrants from $455 to $900.

“This is a win for regional and remote businesses and communities, a win for young Australians looking to develop skills that will help them build a great career, and a win for workers looking to build new futures in new communities built on our great bedrock industries,” Mr Shorten said of the relocation incentives.

A further $15.3 million will fund 10 more Jobs and Skills Expos and support 20 Local Employment co-ordinators in priority employment areas.

But the move on 457 visas attracted strong criticism from National Farmers’ Federation president Duncan Fraser, who said it meant farmers would find it more difficult to employ reliable workers.

“We see an increase of that magnitude as a disincentive to employers to pursue visa applications for skilled workers,” he said.

“We need all forms of assistance in terms of getting labour out to regional areas.”

The business community accused the 457 Visa program of favouring overseas job seeker earlier this year with claims local workers were missing out.

Immigration Minister Brendan O’Connor said the Government’s top priority would “always be jobs for Australians”.

“The permanent migration program is about getting the balance right between our economic and social objectives,” Mr O’Connor said.

“’Our migration program ensures skilled migrants will continue to fill critical gaps in regions and sectors with genuine skills shortages.”

The next financial year program provides 128,550 places for skilled migrants, 60,885 places for family migration and 565 places for migration under special eligibility – a shift of 700 from the skilled to family stream.

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The lucky candidates from 12 countries will face challenges set by the states and territories, including creating content for inspiring tourism videos, writing blogs of their Australian travel experiences and handling the pressure of an impromptu media conference.

Tourism Australia Managing Director Andrew McEvoy said the 18 hopeful contenders would now have to demonstrate, in person, their job credentials to their prospective employers within the state or territory where their dream job would be based.

“After six weeks, 620,000 applications by 330,000 individuals from 196 countries, 46,000 video entries and thousands of supporting references from some of the most famous celebrities in the world we are down to the final 18.

“It’s show time. The candidates now face their very own Australian working holiday – a week of tests and challenges which will ultimately decide who ends up winning these six dream jobs,” Mr McEvoy said.

The finalists were each selected on the basis of their original 30 second video entry and their success in securing high profile endorsement and publicity to support their application.

The 18 candidates come from 12 different countries:  United States (5), England (2), France (2), Afghanistan (1), Belgium (1), Brazil (1), Canada (1), Germany (1), Hong Kong (1), Ireland (1), Scotland (1) and Taiwan (1).

They will be flown to and around Australia by Virgin Australia, and spend a week undergoing a series of challenges relevant to their chosen job. The six winners will be officially announced in Sydney on 21 June 2013.

Tourism Australia’s ‘Best Jobs in the World’ competition is part of a major international marketing push to promote tourism opportunities provided by Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program.

The six ‘best jobs’ are: Wildlife Caretaker (South Australia), Chief Funster (New South Wales), Park Ranger (Queensland), Taste Master (Western Australia), Outback Adventurer (Northern Territory) and Lifestyle Photographer (Melbourne, Victoria).

The campaign is supported by Destination NSW, Tourism NT, Tourism Victoria, Tourism Western Australia, Tourism and Events Queensland and South Australian Tourism Commission.

In addition a number of key commercial partners are supporting the campaign, including Virgin Australia, STA Travel, Citibank, DELL, IKEA, Sony Music and Monster.com.

The 18 ‘Best Jobs in the World’ finalists are:

Wildlife Caretaker (South Australia)
* Hsin Hsuan Hsieh, Taiwan
* Greg Snell, Canada
* Nick Tilley, USA

Chief Funster (New South Wales)
* Holly Easterbrook, England
* Brittany Macleod, USA
* Andrew Smith, USA

Park Ranger (Queensland)
* Elisa Detrez, France
* Chris Leung, Hong Kong
* Jo Muskus, Scotland

Taste Master (Western Australia)
* Rich Keam, England
* Rebecca Morris, USA
* Julian Button, Germany

Outback Adventurer (Northern Territory)
* Allan Dixon, Ireland
* Graham Freeman, USA
* Aude Mayans, France

Lifestyle Photographer (Melbourne, Victoria)
* Moska Najib, Afghanistan
* Marie Michiels, Belgium
* Roberto Seba, Brazil

Fast facts: ‘Best Jobs in the World’
* 6 dream jobs
* 18 finalists from 12 countries
* 620,000 entries submitted by 330,000 people from 196 countries
* 46,000 videos

Australia’s permanent migration program is to remain steady at 190,000 places - equalling the record set last financial year of Australia’s highest annual migrant intake in history. Of these 190,000 permanent visas to be made available, 128,550 will be for skilled migrants (general skilled migration, permanent employer sponsorship and business skills visas), 60,885 for family migration and 565 for special eligibility visas. It is important to note that temporary visas available to Australia such as the subclass 457 employer sponsored visa are uncapped and in addition to these permanent visa places allocated.

The Australian Minister of Immigration’s media release with these figures can be found at: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/media/bo/2013/bo203159.htm

John Adams, of migration specialists Immigration2oz.com comments “What this announcement clearly demonstrates is that Australia very much remains open to new migrants and with its economic growth set at 2.75% next financial year (continuing its consistent growth that saw Australia escape the global recession), excellent job opportunities and a better quality of life are available to those wishing to make the move to Australia”.

Want a new life in Australia ? Come to the UK’s number one immigration event for Australia – Down Under Live.

Fans of intrepid TV adventurer, Simon Reeve, will be glued to their sets at 9pm on Sunday 19 May for the first in his new series on BBC 2, Australia. Visitors to this epic continent should follow Simon’s example and start their tour Down Under in the magnificent ‘Red Centre’.

Home to some of Australia’s most dramatic scenery, including the awe-inspiring Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), the Red Centre of the Northern Territory is the spiritual heart of this amazing, ancient land. Indigenous art and culture entwine with historical natural icons, whilst thrill seekers can indulge in everything from camping under the stars to hot air ballooning, soaking in watering holes to tackling the mighty MacDonnell Ranges.

Australia kick starts with Simon examining the fragile desert ecosystem and the impact of camels on the Outback, joining an Aussie rancher to embark on a high octane camel round-up.

Further episodes will follow him as he travels across the continent. If you fancy joining him, why not come to Down Under Live, in the UK this autumn.

The unemployment rate fell to 6.2 per cent in the first quarter of this year, the lowest since March 2010, from a revised 6.8 per cent three months earlier, according to Statistics New Zealand’s Household Labour Force Survey.

The number of people in work climbed by 38,000, or 1.7 per cent.

Much of the strength was driven by Canterbury, where the jobless rate tumbled 21 per cent to 4.3 per cent and the participation rate and employment rates climbed.

Excluding Canterbury, which is rebuilding from its disastrous earthquakes, unemployment around the rest of the country was 6.6 per cent, and sitting at 10 per cent in Northland and 7.3 per cent in Auckland.

“Outside of Christchurch, employment is struggling, particularly in the tradable sector,” Peter Cavanagh, senior client advisor at Bancorp Treasury, said before the report was released.

Labour’s Grant Robertson says the government cannot rely solely on the Canterbury rebuild to fuel job growth.

“That’s not sustainable and it’s not a credible economic plan in anyone’s book.”

Looking for a job in New Zealand ? Come to Down Under Live – the UK’s number one jobs and emigration event – across the UK in 2013.

According to a report by Brisbane Marketing, the resource-based economic transformation has led to investment expected to boost the city’s $AU114 billion economy to $AU217 billion by 2031.

Komatsu General Manager of Mining Leo Kaloglou told Brisbane Marketing the company decided to set up its mining division national office in Brisbane because most of the major mining houses were also based in the city.

“Some of our customers are in very remote locations and the quick access to the airport in Brisbane is a real benefit for us,” Mr Kalogou said.

“Brisbane is an attractive place to live and the cost of living is a lot lower than Perth and Sydney. The demand for people in the mining and construction sector is very high and the ability to attract them to a nice city is a huge benefit to our business.”

Each year, the State’s resource sector contributes around half ($25 billion) of a total of $50 billion to Brisbane’s economy.

Deloitte Access Economics forecasts Brisbane’s growing economy will be further boosted during the next decade with $165 billion of investment in major new resource projects expected in Queensland.

Between 2015 and 2035, the expansion of the gas industry is projected to bolster Queensland’s real gross state product by approximately $320 billion.

Employment forecasts indicate that metropolitan Brisbane will grow by 343,000 jobs by 2021 and a further 100,000 jobs by 2031, to reach total employment of around 1.5 million by 2031.

This growth will contribute to the projected doubling of Brisbane’s economy.

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As wedding season approaches and couples plan their big getaway, Tourism New Zealand has compiled a guide to some of the most romantic Honeymoon destinations. Whether you are looking for classic romance, city cool, wildlife adventures or want to hit the open road, there is sure to be something for you.

Classic Romance

Coromandel Peninsula

With its pristine beaches, native forests and laid-back vibe, The Coromandel marries relaxation and beauty to perfection. A romantic walk from the north end of the Hahei Beachtakes you to Cathedral Cove, where a naturally formed, cathedral like arch awaits. This is arguably one of the most picturesque parts of the Coromandel Peninsula, providing newlyweds with the idealistic seclusion a romantic honeymoon needs. The beach is sandy with shady pohutukawa trees along the foreshore, whilst the Hot Water Beach in the Coromandel allows you to relax in the warmth of your very own spa pool.

Where to Stay

The 970 Lonely Bay Lodge offers luxury boutique accommodation in the area. Their premier two bedroom honeymoon suite provides guests with plush facilities surrounded by bush or water views of the Purangi Estuary and Cooks Beach.

Roturua

The Mud Spa in Hell’s Gate, Roturua, provides some of the most unique experiences New Zealand has to offer. Home to 700 years of interaction between the Maori people and European Settlers, this incredible place features erupting waters, steaming fumaroles, pools of boiling mud, a mud volcano and the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere.

Where to Stay

Perfectly located on the eastern shores of Lake Rotorua, Wai Ora Lakeside Spa Resort is a contemporary, culturally-themed resort featuring luxurious accommodation.

Food & Wine

Marlborough Sounds

Couples looking for a combination of wine and adventure can explore this famous region through the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. The relaxed nature of the bike ride helps work up a thirst for some of the most famous wines the world has to offer. The tranquil touring route takes you off the beaten track to discover five of New Zealand’s most scenic regions, accompanied by some fantastic flavours, varied but beautiful surroundings and lots of fun.

Where to Stay

The Sounds Retreat is a new luxury lodge for two, located on the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough. Enjoy native forest walks right on the doorstep, dining on the deck under a canopy of stars, decadent cuisine by the in-house chef and if you’re lucky, you may catch a pod of dolphins swimming by.

Waiheke Island

For an intimate experience that combines wine tasting with privacy, couples should consider the Waiheke Island Wine Tours. After a short ferry ride across the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf, couples will enjoy a scenic tour of Waiheke Island in comfort, visiting three top vineyards. Surrounded by rich Maori history, the experience is a blend of wonder and luxury.

Where to Stay

The intimate Boatshed Hotel is one of New Zealand’s best loved boutique hotels. Luxury designer suites are each totally private with panoramic ocean views. Walk on the beach, read a book in the sun, relax and be pampered.

Adventure

Queenstown

There is no better time to visit Queenstown than now, as the city celebrates the 25^thAnniversary of bungee in New Zealand. Couples can travel to where it all began and celebrate their marriage in true Kiwi style by taking a final leap of faith from the Nevis Bungee, the highest in Australasia.

Where to Stay

The Kohara Lodge is an award winning stand-alone house set into the hillside. Relaxed inside living is complimented by wonderful outdoor luxuries.

Waikoto

Honeymooners looking to escape completely can lose themselves in the underground world of the Waitomo Caves. After descending 100 meters below the surface of the earth, couples will find themselves in unique and inspiring surroundings, including thousands of tiny glow worms. The beauty and grandeur of the giant cavern of this lost world is unsurpassed and will be a true highlight of any honeymoon adventure.

Waoku Lodge

The Waoku Lodge invites its guests into the beautiful, rugged and unspoilt West Coast of New Zealand with a luxurious accommodation option. Set in 12 acres of covenanted native bush, peace and tranquillity surround this unique venue with breath-taking views across the Tasman Sea.

Culture

Te Papa

Couples can immerse themselves in true Maori Culture through the Māori Experience Tour and Kapu Tī Tour at Te Papa. Guests will discover Te Papa’s taonga Māori (cultural treasures), and hear stories of how these are a living part of Māori history. Maori hospitality will not be spared as traditional food and drink is generously served during the Tour.

Where to Stay

Couples looking for the perfect environment to relax, celebrate and refresh should head to the Te Nikau Forest Retreat. Enjoy an incredible indoor-outdoor flow with huge barn doors that open up to native bush, the sound of birdsong and a luxurious treehouse spa overlooking a mountain stream.

Waitangi

Waitangi is one of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 between the British Crown and more than 500 Maori chiefs. With such a rich cultural history this is truly a place of learning and interest. It is also a beautiful place to explore, from the small semi-formal garden that surrounds the Treaty House to the six-kilometer forest walk that leads to Haruru Falls.

Where to Stay

Copthorne Hotel and Resort commands a superb waterfront location in the heart of the Bay of Islands, offering uninterrupted bay views surrounded by 60 acres of subtropical gardens as part of the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Open Road

Forgotten World Highway

Forgotten is its name, but this route is really a journey of remembrance. Along its length there are constant reminders of settlers who tried to scratch out a living in the wild, isolated hill country. From the top of the ragged Strathmore Saddle you’ll see the three volcanoes of Tongariro National Park to the east and the snow-topped cone of Mount Taranaki to the west. The Forgotten World Highway is the perfect adventure for couples wanting to venture into the beautiful unknown.

Where to Stay

Motorhomes are the best way to experience the true open road on your honeymoon in New Zealand. You can include bike hire in your rental allowing you to freely cycle back country roads and enjoy the fabulous landscapes. Visit Discovery Motorhomes which offers a comprehensive guide including all you need to know to book your perfect motorhome holiday in beautiful New Zealand.

City Cool

Auckland

Auckland is any shopaholic’s paradise, with everything from top-end designers to open air street markets. While  there, couples can enjoy the city’s diverse cafes, restaurants and nightlife. Visit Sky Tower, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular attractions offering panoramic views of City and Twin Harbours. For fine-dining, newlyweds can experience Auckland’s only 360 degree revolving restaurant, Orbit or for an adrenaline rush they can SkyWalk around the Sky Tower pergola or SkyJump off the tower.

A must-do experience whilst on your honeymoon visiting Auckland is Rangitioto Island, the largest and youngest of Auckland’s volcanoes boasting the finest 360 degree views that the Auckland region has to offer from its 260 metre high summit.

Where to Stay

The Hotel De Brett offers a unique luxury boutique experience, right in the heart of Auckland city.

Dunedin

Newlyweds can head to Dunedin, a beautiful and historic city celebrated for its Victorian and Edwardian buildings. Take part in the romantic Architecture Walk where you will have the chance to view contrasting architectural styles and visit key buildings including First Church, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Dunedin Railway Station.

Dunedin is surrounded by rugged landscapes and home to world-renowned wildlife encounters.

Where to Stay

Stay at Hotel St Clair luxury suites and apartments.

Wildlife

Stewart Island

Stewart Island is a definite must-see for nature enthusiasts. You can experience where some of the rarest plants and birds in the world thrive and stately native trees have stood for centuries. These, along with white, sandy beaches and sparkling turquoise waters, make the island a memorable spot for nature lovers.

Stewart Island also offers some of the best sea fishing in New Zealand as well as greatwalking tracks, star gazing and the stunning Southern Lights in winter. For those short on time, a scenic flight over Stewart Island offers a chance to see the natural wonder of the Island and the Rakiura National Park.

Where to Stay

Stay at Stewart Island Lodge, situated just five minutes’ walk from the village at Halfmoon Bay.

Kaikoura & Akoroa

The picturesque coastal town of Kaikoura is all about adventure on or near the sea. Watch whales, snorkel with seals or tuck into a plate of crayfish. Whale watching trips leave the town several times a day and the local seal colony is always entertaining.

A must-do experience in Akoroa is a cruise around Akaroa Harbour where you will visit spectacular sea caves, volcanic formations, high cliffs and bird nesting sites and see rare Hector’s dolphins, seals, penguins and many sea birds.

Where to Stay

Stay at the Hapuku Lodge, a luxury lodge accommodation 10 minutes north of Kaikoura.

Notes to editors

Tourism New Zealand is the organisation responsible for marketing New Zealand to the world as a holiday destination.