The things that make NZ what it is don't help the younger generation thrive. (File photo)

Around the world, New Zealand is known for many things. Children can grow up barefoot building sandcastles; adults can start work early in the morning and be home for barbeques and DIY; the elderly can walk along the waterfront and settle in baches around the country.

A sweeping glance gives an idealistic picture. A dissection, however, highlights one key demographic on the backfoot: young people. Specifically, young, working, single Kiwis.

It is no secret that New Zealand is a popular place for emigration. Those aged 20 to 30 are the key group: they make up the highest proportion of people both departing and arriving on our shores.

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But while more people are coming, are they settling? And, perhaps more importantly, are young Kiwis staying here - or staying overseas?

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The climate and large rural areas of New Zealand provide plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities and extreme sports. There are universities, colleges, shopping centres and theatres. Its remoteness from the rest of the world gives a sense of security.

These things all make New Zealand what it is - but do they make it an appealing place for young people to be? And not only to be, but to thrive?

It is arguably easier to crack into the job market here because there's less competition. However, it's fair to say New Zealand's isolation means career prospects only offer so much. In the arts this is even more pronounced.

Of course, the counter-argument to this is the internet; it's now easier than ever to gain recognition on the world stage.

The internet and social media also have their downsides though. Online spoilers ruin popular television shows and movies that air here after they do in the US or UK; the vastly different time zones can make New Zealand either too early or too late to worldwide events.

There is also a distinct lack of 'keeping up with the times'. Kiwis battle an old-fashioned public transport system based around buses rather than the underground or tram networks of other cities. In terms of shopping, we struggle to even match our neighbours across the Tasman. These factors play a significant role in a young person's life and their ability to flourish.

So, are the younger generation in New Zealand missing out on the world?

If our young people went abroad - and stayed there - in large numbers, the effect on housing, incomes and Kiwi culture would be significant.

Maybe New Zealand is just more geared to families. Should we then be encouraging young people to go overseas to experience and enjoy, ready to return later in life to reside in a focused, family-oriented social formation?

If the answer to the last question is a resounding, or even a hesitant, yes, it might just be playing to New Zealand's strengths.