More women are having children later in life, according to new data.

Stats NZ figures show a record-low number of under-25s are giving birth, which is half the number of a generation ago.

The number of live births last year was essentially the same as in 1995 - just under 58,000.

Massey University Sociologist, Paul Spoonley says he's not surprised as life expectancy rises.

"There are many more children born to women aged over 40 in New Zealand, compared to women aged 20 and younger in New Zealand." 

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