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Analysts in the Population Statistics Unit hear often repeated statements that make us:
On these pages we will examine the stories behind some of the common "population myths" (facts, fudges and fallacies) and subject them to a range of ingenious tests. We may also throw out a few challenges to our fellow analysts to provide evidence to support or refute claims linking population trends with economic trends.
We hope to clarify some areas of confusion, bury some misconceptions and encourage some debate.
Myth 1: Half of all marriages end in divorce
Myth 2: There was a surge of returning New Zealanders after 9/11
Myth 3: "The browning of New Zealand"
Myth 4: New Zealand women are now having their first baby at age 30
Myth 5: New Zealand's population is only growing because of migration
Myth 6: "In 2003 four of every five pregnant Asian women aborted their babies"
Myth 7: The average life expectancy of males is 6 years less than females
Myth 8: New Zealand has 3 million people and 60 million sheep
Myth 9: The Brain Drain
Myth 10: There are at least 1 million New Zealanders living overseas
Myth 11: "There are more people alive now than have ever lived"
Myth 12: "New Zealand is in the midst of a baby boom"
Myth 13: "More women are remaining childless"
Myth 14: The Drift North
Myth 15: The return of expatriates is the solution to maintaining population growth