Seniors@work PRESS RELEASE | 11 AUGUST 2026

PRESS RELEASE | 11 AUGUST 2026

Making Experience Count: Seniors@work Celebrates Seven Years Championing Mature Workers

As New Zealand grapples with unemployment reaching its highest level in more than a decade, Seniors@work is marking seven years by urging employers not to overlook one of the country's greatest workforce strengths – experienced workers aged 50 and over.

Since launching in 2019, Seniors@work has helped connect thousands of mature New Zealanders with employers who recognise the skills, reliability and commitment that experienced workers bring to the workplace.

Founder Ian Fraser says the need for age-inclusive employment has never been greater.

The latest labour market figures released by Stats NZ highlight the challenges facing New Zealand's workforce, with unemployment rising to 5.6 percent and around 171,000 New Zealanders now out of work – the highest level in more than a decade.

While the tougher employment market will affect people of all ages, Fraser says mature job seekers can face an additional hurdle: age bias.

"When unemployment rises, competition for jobs intensifies, and unfortunately many experienced workers find themselves overlooked despite having exactly the qualities employers need," says Fraser.

"Businesses navigating uncertain economic conditions need people who can step in, adapt quickly, solve problems and contribute from day one. That's where mature workers excel. They bring years of practical experience, sound judgement, resilience and a strong work ethic that can make an immediate difference."

Fraser believes the current labour market presents employers with an opportunity to broaden their thinking around recruitment.

"Now is the time to look beyond age and focus on capability. Experience is one of New Zealand's greatest workforce assets, and making better use of it will benefit businesses, employees and the wider economy."

Seniors@work continues to see strong growth in mature job seekers registering with the platform, with many reporting that finding work is taking longer despite extensive experience, strong qualifications and excellent employment histories.

"Our message to employers is simple: make experience count," Fraser says.

"Mature workers offer so much more than technical skills. They bring sound judgement, resilience, professionalism, strong work ethics and the ability to mentor younger colleagues. They are often among the most loyal and dependable employees in any organisation."

Established by Fraser after experiencing the challenges of finding work later in life, Seniors@work was created to challenge ageism in recruitment and provide employers with a simple way to demonstrate they welcome applications from experienced workers.

Unlike general job boards, every role advertised on Seniors@work is promoted as being suitable for people aged 50 and over. Each listing sends a positive message that the employer values experience and is committed to inclusive hiring practices.

Fraser is particularly grateful to the larger employers who support Seniors@work through 12-month listing subscriptions, regularly advertising roles and actively welcoming mature job seekers. These include Westpac, NZ Safety Blackwoods, NZ Post, Harvey Norman, The Warehouse Group, Ritchies and Doonans the Rag Company.

Over the past seven years, Seniors@work has also worked alongside government agencies, employer networks, business organisations and community groups to promote the benefits of employing older New Zealanders and encourage more age-friendly workplaces.

"At a time when New Zealand is facing economic uncertainty and rising unemployment, we can't afford to let experience sit on the sidelines," says Fraser. "Every experienced New Zealander who wants to work should have the opportunity to do so, and every employer should recognise the value they bring."

"Making experience count isn't just good for individuals – it's good for businesses, communities and the New Zealand economy."

ENDS