New figures showing older people will be a bigger part of the workforce are being welcomed.

The projections from Stats NZ show the proportion of people in the workforce aged over 65 will increase to nine percent by 2030, it's currently at six percent.

Age Concern's Stephanie Clare said that's something employers can take advantage of the shift if they are prepared.

"There's a huge skill that our older population bring to our workforce and certainly lots of experience that benefits a range of ages in our workplaces."

The figures show the total labour force will grow to 3 million people by 2030, up from 2.6 million people currently.

She said managers should be looking at retraining opportunities and flexibility for older workers.

"I think that a good workplace allows that variable ages to work together to bring out the best in that workplace."