Demand for AI Skills in New Zealand Job Listings Has Jumped by 143%
The most recent Employment Report by Seek has found that references to AI-related skills within job ads have more than doubled since March 2025.
AI-led transformation shows no signs of slowing down in New Zealand, with job board Seek’s newest Employment Report revealing that demand for AI skills is continuing to grow exponentially.
References to AI-related skills within job postings on the site have more than doubled year-on-year, increasing by 143% since March 2025. Notably, AI references are most common in job ads within the IT sector.
Written by
Adam is a Senior Career Consultant at Learning People, specialising in helping people move into IT, Project Management, Cyber Security, Software Development, and Cloud Computing roles through personalised 1:1 consultation. He understands well which skills and certifications employers value most in today’s fast-evolving tech landscape.
The IT Sector Leads the Pack in the Need for AI Skills
Across New Zealand, the demand for AI skills is now over five times higher than in 2019. This staggering growth is continuing into 2026, with AI references in job postings having risen by 143.5% since March 2025. Notably, AI references are most common in ads for roles in Information & Communication Technology (13.4%), followed by Marketing & Communications (7.3%), and Consulting & Strategy (5.9%).
"We’re tracking with great interest the number of jobs we see that are asking for AI skills, and that growth is absolutely exponential...
..In particular we see it in the IT space, but also in areas like Marketing and Communications, where AI skills are starting to have quite a big impact in the type of work being done. It’s not just restricted to those two areas though, we’re seeing AI skills in demand across the board as the skills required and the demand for those skills accelerate.”
In addition, Microsoft announced just last month that it will double its existing AI and digital skilling commitment in New Zealand, supporting 200,000 more people to learn workforce-ready AI skills. With generative AI predicted to contribute between $76 and $108 billion to New Zealand’s economy each year by 2038, the need for qualified and confident AI users in the IT sector and beyond is undeniable.
This data reaffirms that AI skills are becoming non-negotiable for IT and tech professionals in New Zealand. With salary premiums for AI specialists averaging 21% above comparable technology roles, AI training clearly opens the door to faster career progression and higher earning potential.
Did You Know? +1.3 Million New Jobs Have Been Created by AI
LinkedIn’s latest Labour Market Report has revealed that a staggering +1.3 million jobs have been created thanks to AI.
AI doesn't just improve productivity in the IT and tech sectors - it creates more roles for motivated, qualified professionals.
Get Ahead with AI Skills Training
Although foundational AI training can be useful, it’s crucial to align your AI skills with your career path and future goals. That’s why all of our Pathways include AI courses that will supply you with the knowledge and expertise you need to excel in IT, tech, or project management.
If you’re looking to upskill in AI to help you stand out in a competitive job market, then why not arrange a free, no-obligation call with me or one of my colleagues to see how we can support you? We’re here to answer any questions you might have about our career-ready AI courses.
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