The property industry is rubbishing claims that a spike in migration will mean an increase in house prices.

Net arrivals into New Zealand reached a new high in the year to September, with 45,400 migrants.

Winston Peters says it's bad news for all New Zealanders, as it will put even more heat on the property market.

However Properazzi.co.nz Chief Executive Alistair Helm says that's an inflammatory correlation.

"Immigration doesn't come in a sudden rush in a boat full of people. It comes gradually and people will choose to live where there are opportunities for work."

Massey University sociology professor Paul Spoonley says while some adjustments have to be made so the country can cope with an influx of people, it's a sign of a strong economy.

He says the boost in people moving here from overseas is driven by the need for skills in our labour market.

"We need immigrants, they're contributing to our economic growth.

"Of course that brings with it challenges, so we need to find new schools or new places in schools - obviously the Auckland housing market."