The results reflect higher tax revenue and increased returns from government-owned assets. These providing a more positive outlook for businesses, investors and financial markets. For the 11 months to the end of May, the government’s deficit, excluding ACC finances, stood at $6.8 billion. Including ACC finances, the deficit totaled $9.5…

Recent analysis suggests that while higher contribution levels can improve retirement outcomes, they may not be equally suitable for everyone. Research conducted by the Retirement Income Interest Group of the New Zealand Society of Actuaries examined the potential effects of raising KiwiSaver contributions to 6 per cent. The findings indicate…

The figures suggest households may be becoming more confident about spending. According to ANZ’s latest card spending report, spending rose 1.8 per cent in May compared with April on a seasonally adjusted basis. Annual growth was also positive, with spending increasing 4.8 per cent compared with the same month a…

According to Westpac’s latest economic outlook, many families could soon be dealing with higher living costs and a softer job market. After signs of recovery earlier in the year, the economic outlook has shifted significantly due to renewed conflict in the Middle East. This matters greatly for New Zealand because…

Over the past year, thousands of borrowers have been reaching the end of fixed-term home loans that were locked in when interest rates were much higher. As these loans expire, homeowners have been able to refinance onto lower rates. This refinancing trend has been a major source of financial relief…

1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026 Inland Revenue (IR) has materially increased its compliance and audit activity over the past year, and the impact is now clearly visible in Audit Shield claims data across New Zealand. Rather than a single spike, the pattern points to a sustained and deliberate…

A recent report by Good Shepherd highlights how financial pressure is intensifying, particularly for women over 65 who depend solely on NZ Super for income. Although NZ Super increased by 3.1 per cent this year in line with inflation, the adjustment has failed to keep pace with the real cost…

A major factor behind this increase is the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. As fuel prices climb, you are likely to notice immediate effects at the pump. An estimated $16.50 will be added to your weekly costs. However, the impact does not stop there. Higher transport and production costs…

The key question is not just how much prices will rise, but how soon people will start noticing it in. Petrol will be the first and most immediate impact. If oil prices remain high, fuel costs could rise within days or weeks. Estimates suggest petrol could increase by around 15…

Brent crude has climbed to its highest level since January 2025, and the ripple effects are already being felt worldwide. The biggest concern centres on the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but critical shipping lane off Iran’s southern coast. Around one-fifth of the global oil supply passes through the strait.…