NZ economy ticked up in 1Q but economists see little reason to celebrate

NZ economy ticked up in 1Q but economists see little reason to celebrate
The slight growth was in line with Reserve Bank forecasts but GDP per capita fell for the sixth successive quarter. (Image: Getty)
Kaya Selby
New Zealand may have escaped recession, but economists say there is not much reason to celebrate.Data today showed the economy grew by 0.2% quarter-on-quarter in the March quarter.  This means the country is no longer technically in a recession as it followed two consecutive quarters of contraction. The headline number was slightly higher than economists had expected and directly in line with forecasts from the Reserve Bank of NZ in the May Monetary Policy Statement. GDP rose 0.2% over the year ended March 2024 versus the year en...

More Economy

How to Be Wrong: summer reading for the PM
Economy

How to Be Wrong: summer reading for the PM

Advice on leading for innovation, threats to democracy, gangs, and more.

RBNZ officials not against more transparency, just cautious
Economy

RBNZ officials not against more transparency, just cautious

The key is that any changes add value, says Assistant Governor Karen Silk.

‘Looking up’: Recovery taking hold as business confidence hits 11-year high
Economy

‘Looking up’: Recovery taking hold as business confidence hits 11-year high

Business confidence jumped another nine points from 58 to 67 in November, the highest level in 11 years, the ANZ Business Outlook survey for November shows.“Things are looking up!” said ANZ chief economist Sharon Zollner.“Out of a hole, admittedly,” she added.When interpreting qu...

Staff reporters 27 Nov 2025
Rodger Finlay new RBNZ chair, Rhiannon McKinnon to board
Economy

Rodger Finlay new RBNZ chair, Rhiannon McKinnon to board

Finlay is expected to deliver increased accountability and transparency.

Rebecca Howard 27 Nov 2025