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GDP growth rates have been erratic because of the stop-go effects of lockdowns, but the economy is in reasonable shape to cope with the latest episode.

Unsurprisingly, retail spending fell off a cliff during the latest level four lockdown. Early signs point to a swift recovery, but, inflation may dampen spirits.

The construction industry has been performing strongly in 2021. But the latest COVID-19 outbreak could have a dampening impact on the industry, especially in Auckland.

Kiwi consumers’ insatiable demand for vehicles drives strong growth in imports.

The official cash rate has been kept at 0.25 percent due to uncertainty of the COVID-19 enforced lockdown.

Many believe faster inflation is inevitable in New Zealand. But, could it be that it’s already well underway for parts of our economy, particularly our businesses?

The COVID-19 pandemic and world-wide border and travel restrictions have reversed New Zealand’s migration trends.

Unemployment rate drops to four percent. What does this imply for inflation and interest rates?

Annual inflation increased to 3.3 percent in June 2021, the biggest increase in nearly 10 years. New Zealand’s period of low interest rates looks to be coming to an end.

With food price inflation showing no signs of slowing down, a balanced diet may soon be out of reach for many Kiwis.

Low-income New Zealanders are stuck at the mercy of inflation, and increasing rental prices. Is there any chance of them owning their own home amidst this housing crisis?

Young New Zealander’s are only accustomed to low levels of inflation. So how will they fare with the expected increases to inflation coming?

The increase in GDP in the first quarter of 2021 was greater than most observers expected, and a few of them had predicted a decrease.

The Climate Change Commission provided its final climate change mitigation advice to the Government detailing the pathway towards a low emissions future for Aotearoa.

COVID-19 has reversed some longstanding migration trends.

The Budget did not secure a Just Transition for New Zealand’s transition to a low-emissions economy; however it does lay some foundations.

Budget 2021 addresses the challenges facing vulnerable communities. However, it fails to take the opportunity to use the strong recovery to be transformational.

After a surprisingly good recovery from COVID-19, we see the 2021 Budget tackling the issues faced by Māori and Pacific Peoples.

Finance Minister says Budget 2021 will take a balanced approach that continues to emphasise investment where it is needed most, alongside careful fiscal management.

The unemployment rate has been slowly decreasing recently. But, could it be that this decrease is just a front, covering for more negative changes in our labour market?

The RBNZ has a new remit to consider house prices, have they got enough tools to meet three antagonistic targets?

Government spending on superannuation and benefits is growing rapidly, but it is not something that can easily be controlled, except through unpalatable policy measures.

New Zealand’s underinvestment in transport infrastructure has been well documented. How does the Government’s spending in this area compare to population and GDP growth?

What does our rapidly ageing population mean for the future of healthcare spending?

Education’s share of GDP has fallen over the past 10 years, and there are worrying signs that attainment has also fallen.

Is New Zealand’s public expenditure keeping up with needs and funding capacity?

GDP in the December 2020 quarter declined by one percent compared to September 2020.

Kiwifruit exports have dramatically increased since 2010, leading now as the highest horticulture export.

New Zealand honey exports have surged in terms of value and volume over the last two years. This has been driven by Manuka honey exports to China and the US.

We look at the market for New Zealand apples. Export receipts are growing fast but there are clear labour constraints.