New Zealand’s annual average GDP growth accelerated in the first quarter of 2026, rising to 0.8% from 0.2% recorded in the fourth quarter of 2025. The latest figure, updated on 17 June 2026, marks a notable improvement in the country’s growth momentum on a year-average basis.
The shift from 0.2% to 0.8% suggests that economic activity has been gradually recovering, with stronger quarterly performances now feeding into the annual average measure. While still modest by historical standards, the uptick in the first quarter of 2026 indicates that New Zealand is moving further away from the subdued growth pace that characterized the end of 2025. Investors and policymakers will be watching upcoming quarters to see whether this improving trend can be sustained.
