The latest figures from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) indicate a decline in business confidence, dropping to 18% in the third quarter of 2025. This decline follows a previous rate of 22% recorded in the second quarter of the year. The updated data, reflecting enterprise sentiment across the nation, was released on October 6, 2025.
The 4% dip in confidence comes amidst a backdrop of both global and domestic economic challenges that may have impacted New Zealand businesses' outlooks. Analysts suggest that while the dip is notable, the sentiment remains within a range that can be considered cautiously optimistic, reflecting uncertainties that businesses are navigating both locally and internationally.
As New Zealand continues to maneuver through economic intricacies, these results could signal a shift in strategic planning for businesses aiming to weather continuing economic fluctuations. Observers will be keenly watching subsequent quarters to assess whether this downward trend will stabilize or if further declines in confidence are on the horizon.
