New Zealand’s annual average GDP has edged back into positive territory, marking a tentative shift in momentum for the economy after a period of contraction. According to the latest data updated on 18 March 2026, the annual average GDP rate rose to 0.2% in the fourth quarter of 2025, up from -0.6% recorded in the third quarter of 2025.
The move from negative to slightly positive growth suggests that the economy may be emerging from a downturn, with the improvement in Q4 2025 breaking a sequence of weaker readings over the preceding quarters. While the 0.2% figure indicates only modest expansion, it represents a notable turnaround from the contraction seen earlier in 2025.
Investors and policymakers will now focus on whether this return to growth can be sustained, as the small positive reading leaves little margin for external shocks or domestic setbacks. The Q4 2025 data will serve as a key reference point for assessing New Zealand’s economic trajectory going into 2026.
