Asia Pacific:
New Zealand
Market Snapshot
New Zealand’s fitness industry sustained measured growth in 2025 despite a subdued economic environment. The sector comprises an estimated 1,200 to 1,500 facilities serving approximately 1.1 million members, representing roughly 26.5% of the adult population. Industry revenue grew an estimated 3% year-over-year, reaching NZ$520 million (US$290.5 million). The increase was modest but notable, coming amid cost-of-living pressures that weighed on both households and operators throughout the period. Even under constrained economic conditions, New Zealand consumers continued to prioritize health and wellness, suggesting the category holds a degree of insulation from broader financial pressures.
Key Market Data (2025)
Source: Exercise New Zealand, SportNZ
Industry Revenue (US$)
Million
Fitness Facilities
Members
Million
Penetration Rate
Members
Country Insights
Exercise Gains Ground as a Driver of Healthy Aging
By Richard Beddie, CEO, Exercise New Zealand
Industry Performance and Market Dynamics
One of the most significant developments during the year was the growing public awareness of the health benefits associated with regular exercise. Media coverage of exercise as a tool for improving health outcomes, extending healthspan and supporting healthy aging increased considerably. This was particularly evident in the growing interest in strength training, which is increasingly being recognized not only as a fitness activity but also as an important component of long-term health and functional independence.
The active aging market continues to present significant opportunities for providers as New Zealand’s population ages. More consumers are seeking exercise services designed to support mobility, strength, balance and overall quality of life rather than purely aesthetic or performance-focused outcomes.
The facility landscape remained relatively stable throughout the year, with modest net growth. New openings generally kept pace with closures, resulting in a healthy and competitive market. Consumers continue to benefit from a diverse range of exercise options, including traditional health clubs, boutique studios, 24-hour facilities, personal training providers and community-based exercise services.
Workforce challenges that emerged during and immediately following the COVID-19 period have largely stabilized. Although workforce development remains an ongoing priority, the acute staffing pressures experienced in previous years have largely been resolved.
Artificial intelligence has also emerged as an area of growing interest across the sector. Although its impact on direct exercise service delivery remains relatively limited, many facility operators are exploring AI-powered solutions to improve administration, customer communication, marketing, operational efficiency and business intelligence. As with many markets globally, operators are monitoring technological developments closely while recognizing that the human connection between exercise professionals and clients remains a key driver of engagement, retention and outcomes.
Policy, Advocacy, and Public Health
The most significant policy and advocacy development during 2025 was the preparation of New Zealand’s first exercise industry white paper for Parliament. With the country entering an election year, Exercise New Zealand developed four policy initiatives designed to significantly increase physical activity participation and improve long-term health outcomes across the population.
The white paper reflects a growing recognition that the exercise sector is not simply a recreation industry, but an important contributor to national health, well-being, workforce productivity and healthcare sustainability. It also represents a significant step forward in positioning exercise as a preventive health intervention within broader policy discussions.
Economic and External Context
New Zealand’s economy remained relatively flat throughout 2025, with economic growth below long-term averages and trailing global growth rates. Cost-of-living pressures continued to impact household budgets, while businesses faced ongoing increases in operating costs.
Despite these headwinds, demand for exercise and well-being services remained strong. The industry’s ability to maintain growth in both membership and revenue highlights the increasing importance New Zealanders place on their health and well-being, even during periods of economic uncertainty.
Outlook and Key Drivers
The outlook for New Zealand’s exercise industry remains positive. Consumer awareness of the benefits of exercise continues to grow, particularly in relation to longevity, strength, mental well-being and disease prevention. Combined with increasing engagement from policymakers and ongoing innovation across the sector, the industry is well positioned for sustainable growth.
While broader economic conditions may continue to create challenges, the long-term fundamentals remain strong. The industry’s role in supporting healthier, more active communities is becoming increasingly recognized, creating opportunities for further growth and impact in the years ahead.
