The line chart illustrates fluctuations in birth and death rates in New Zealand over a period spanning from 1901 to 2101.
A glance at the graph reveals that both birth and death rates experienced significant growth during the first half of the century before stabilizing in subsequent decades. It is also clear that birth rates exceeded death rates throughout most of the 20th century, but this trend is projected to reverse in the latter part of the 21st century.
In 1901, the birth index in New Zealand stood at around 20,000. This figure then exhibited substantial growth, culminating in a peak of approximately 65,000 in the 1960s. Subsequently, it underwent a period of oscillation before stabilizing at around 50,000 births annually in the early 21st century. Meanwhile, mortality rates followed a more gradual upward trajectory, commencing at about 10,000 in 1901 and steadily increasing to reach around 35,000 by the early 21st century.
Looking ahead, fertility rates are predicted to decline modestly, stabilizing at approximately 45,000 by 2101. Conversely, fatality rates are expected to rise considerably, culminating in a figure of around 60,000 by mid-century before leveling off.