Mental health challenges are spreading unevenly across New Zealand’s workforce, with certain job sectors facing disproportionate levels of stress and financial strain. TELUS Health’s March 2025 Index, based on feedback from 1,000 employed Kiwis, exposes a troubling divide in psychological wellbeing that could shape the future of work.
Financial insecurity strains productivity
According to the Index, two in five workers in New Zealand have no emergency savings, while 54% cite financial concerns as their leading source of personal stress. This financial instability is directly affecting workplace performance—31% of workers report that their mental health is negatively impacting their productivity, with 40% feeling overwhelmed.
Julie Cressey, General Manager of TELUS Health New Zealand, pointed to the broader implications:
“The current economic climate coupled with a labour shortage and mental health challenges is putting immense pressure on our workforce,” she said. “With financial concerns topping the list of personal stress for over half of working people in New Zealand, we’re witnessing a significant ripple effect across communities and workplaces.”
Gender and parental disparities widen
The Index exposes significant gender gaps in wellbeing, with women’s mental health scores (58.9) falling below those of men (62.4). Parents are also facing increased strain, with mental health scores seven points below the national average due to concerns about their children’s wellbeing. Meanwhile, 35% of parents report feelings of guilt over limited time with family.
“Women and individuals in regions like Waikato and Northland are bearing the brunt of this economic uncertainty,” said Cressey.
Workplace culture influences mental health outcomes
TELUS Health’s data shows that positive workplace environments significantly enhance mental health. Workers in family-friendly workplaces—now comprising 56% of organisations—reported an average mental health score of 62.8, exceeding the national average of 60.6. Among supported working parents, that score climbs to 64.5.
“Positive work environments significantly impact employee mental health and wellbeing,” the report notes. “While a supportive environment is foundational, structured wellbeing programmes remain essential to meeting the diverse needs of all employees.”
Paula Allen, Global Leader of Research & Client Insights at TELUS Health, added:
“Implementing wellbeing strategies that make workers feel supported and cared for is not only beneficial for employees, but crucial for sustaining organisational vitality, fostering a healthy company culture and ultimately driving business success.”
Regional and global comparisons reveal disparities
The Waikato region posted the lowest mental health score at 58.0, while Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay led with 63.2. Northland saw the most improvement since January, with a 4.7-point increase to 60.4. Overall, the South Island reported stronger mental health outcomes (61.9).
Globally, New Zealand (60.6) trails behind countries like the United States (69.9), United Kingdom (64.7), and Canada (63.1), but ranks above South Korea (56.1).
A rising wave of financial anxiety and psychological burnout is sweeping through New Zealand’s working population. TELUS Health’s latest Index puts the issue in sharp focus, stating:
“Wellbeing strategies must be both inclusive and localised if they are to make a meaningful impact.”