“The primary sector remains a bright spot, driving economic recovery for regional New Zealand,” said Brunsdon. “While the job market remains challenging, households continue to scrimp with their money,” Brunsdon said. Employment gains remained more muted than economic activity, with only three South Island regions experiencing employment growth in the quarter. Earlier this week, BNZ chief economist Mike Jones released a report on regional economic progress, which also identified early signs of improvement in the North Island cities. But some convergence in regional economic performance was likely this year.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 25, 2026 20:40 UTC