Band 7+: The graph below gives information about changes in the birth and death rates in New Zealand between 1901 and 2101. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The line graph illustrates the changes in the birth and death rates in New Zealand between 1901 and 2101.

Overall, it is evident that births saw the highest level, while deaths remained the lowest throughout the period, although both figures are expected to be similar in the second half of the 21st century. Notably, births experienced large fluctuations, while deaths marked a steady upward trend.

In 1901, the birth rate was nearly 22,000, compared to with roughly 10,000 deaths. Births increased sharply between 1921 and 1961, reaching a peak of around 65,000 birth numbers. After 1961, the figure fell slightly and fluctuated between 50,000 and 60,000 for several decades. From 2021, births are predicted to decline significantly, falling to 45,000 in 2101.

In contrast, the death rate increased slowly from 10,000 in 1901, approximately to 30,000 by 2021. Afterwards, this rate is expected to rise sharply to 55,000, overtaking the births index in 2041. Although deaths are estimated to peak at over 60,000 around 2061, they are forecasted to decrease noticeably by the end of the period.