Balance Of Trade - NZ Economic Data | Sigmanomics | Sigmanomics
New Zealand Balance of Trade
-1.54
Actual
-0.955
Consensus
-1.384
Previous
New Zealand’s November 2025 Balance of Trade deficit widened sharply to NZD -1.54 billion, missing estimates of -0.95 billion and deepening from October’s -1.35 billion. This 14% increase in the deficit signals ongoing external pressures amid strong import demand and weaker exports. Looking ahead, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand may face challenges balancing inflation control with currency depreciation risks as geopolitical tensions and commodity prices remain uncertain. Updated 11/20/25
Balance Of Trade - NZ
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Listen to: New Zealand Balance of Trade
New Zealand’s November 2025 Balance of Trade: A Deepening Deficit Amid Global Uncertainties
Key takeaways: New Zealand’s November 2025 balance of trade deficit widened to NZD -1.54 billion, surpassing estimates and marking the largest shortfall in six months. This reflects persistent import strength amid softer export demand. The deficit’s expansion signals ongoing external pressures on the NZD and inflation outlook. Monetary policy faces a delicate balancing act as global risks and domestic fiscal settings evolve. Forward-looking scenarios range from moderate improvement if commodity prices rebound, to further deterioration if geopolitical tensions escalate.
New Zealand’s balance of trade for November 2025 posted a deficit of NZD -1.54 billion, exceeding the consensus estimate of -0.95 billion and deepening from October’s -1.35 billion. This marks the largest monthly deficit since May 2025, when the surplus peaked at NZD 1.43 billion. The persistent trade shortfall reflects a combination of strong import demand and subdued export growth amid global economic headwinds.
Drivers this month
Import volumes rose 3.20% MoM, driven by machinery and consumer goods.
Export receipts contracted 1.10% MoM, pressured by lower dairy and meat shipments.
Commodity price softness, especially in dairy, weighed on export values.
Policy pulse
The widening deficit adds complexity for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ), which has maintained a hawkish stance amid inflation concerns. The trade gap exerts downward pressure on the NZD, potentially complicating inflation targeting and monetary tightening plans.
Market lens
Immediate reaction: The NZD/USD pair weakened 0.40% within the first hour post-release, reflecting concerns over external imbalances. Two-year government bond yields edged down 5 basis points, signaling cautious investor sentiment.
The balance of trade is a core macroeconomic indicator reflecting the net value of exports minus imports. New Zealand’s persistent trade deficits since August 2025 (-0.58B NZD) highlight structural challenges in external accounts. The current deficit of -1.54B NZD contrasts sharply with the 12-month average surplus of approximately NZD 0.35 billion, underscoring a recent shift in trade dynamics.
Geographic & Temporal Scope
Data sourced from the Sigmanomics database covers monthly trade flows through November 2025. Key trading partners include China, Australia, and the United States, whose demand fluctuations critically impact NZ’s export performance.
Monetary Policy & Financial Conditions
The RBNZ’s official cash rate currently stands at 5.25%, reflecting efforts to tame inflation. However, the expanding trade deficit may pressure the NZD, complicating the transmission of monetary policy and potentially requiring recalibration if currency weakness fuels imported inflation.
Fiscal Policy & Government Budget
Fiscal settings remain moderately expansionary, with government spending supporting domestic demand. This may indirectly boost imports, contributing to the trade deficit. The government’s budget surplus target faces headwinds if external imbalances persist.
November’s trade deficit of NZD -1.54 billion widened from October’s -1.35 billion and is well below the 12-month average surplus of 0.35 billion. This marks a reversal from the positive trade balances seen in early 2025, such as the 1.43 billion surplus in May.
Imports have steadily increased over the past six months, rising 12% cumulatively since May, while exports have declined 8% over the same period. This divergence is the primary driver of the growing deficit.
Drivers this month
Machinery imports surged 5.50% MoM, reflecting capital investment.
Dairy exports dropped 2.30% MoM, pressured by lower global prices.
Energy imports rose 4.10%, linked to higher crude oil prices.
Policy pulse
The trade deficit’s expansion may delay RBNZ’s plans to pause rate hikes. Currency depreciation risks imported inflation, which could keep the central bank on alert.
Market lens
Immediate reaction: NZD/USD depreciated 0.40%, while 2-year yields declined 5 bps, reflecting risk-off sentiment. The NZX50 index fell 0.70% in early trading.
This chart signals a clear trend of a deteriorating trade balance, reversing the surplus trend seen earlier in 2025. The persistent deficit suggests external vulnerabilities that could weigh on the NZD and inflation outlook in coming quarters.
Looking ahead, New Zealand’s trade balance trajectory hinges on several factors. Commodity prices, global demand, and domestic policy settings will shape outcomes. We outline three scenarios:
Bullish scenario (30% probability)
Global commodity prices rebound, lifting dairy and meat exports by 5% YoY.
Import growth moderates as domestic demand cools.
Trade deficit narrows to NZD -0.80 billion by Q1 2026.
Base scenario (50% probability)
Exports remain flat amid mixed global signals.
Imports grow moderately, sustaining a deficit near NZD -1.50 billion.
NZD remains under pressure but stabilizes around 0.62 USD.
Heightened tensions in Asia-Pacific and global supply chain volatility remain key risks. Any escalation could further disrupt NZ’s export markets and import costs.
New Zealand’s November 2025 balance of trade deficit signals mounting external pressures amid a complex global backdrop. The widening gap challenges the RBNZ’s inflation targeting and currency stability goals. Fiscal policy’s role in domestic demand also influences import dynamics. Investors and policymakers should monitor commodity prices, geopolitical developments, and domestic demand trends closely. The trade deficit’s trajectory will be a critical barometer for NZ’s macroeconomic health in 2026.
Financial Markets & Sentiment
Market sentiment remains cautious. The NZD’s recent depreciation and bond yield softness reflect concerns over external imbalances and inflation risks. Equity markets have shown sensitivity to trade data, with the NZX50 index down 0.70% post-release.
Structural & Long-Run Trends
Longer-term, New Zealand faces structural trade challenges, including reliance on commodity exports and import dependence for capital goods. Diversification and productivity gains will be essential to improve external balances sustainably.
Key Markets Likely to React to Balance of Trade
The balance of trade is a critical driver of New Zealand’s currency and equity markets. Key tradable symbols historically sensitive to trade data include the NZD/USD forex pair, the NZX50 equity index, and commodity-linked stocks. These markets react swiftly to shifts in trade flows, influencing monetary policy expectations and investor sentiment.
NZX50 – Equity index sensitive to export-oriented sectors.
FBU – Fletcher Building, impacted by import costs and domestic demand.
BTCUSD – Risk sentiment proxy, often inversely correlated with trade uncertainty.
AUDNZD – Reflects relative economic conditions between Australia and NZ, both trade-reliant.
Indicator vs. NZDUSD Since 2020
A comparative analysis of New Zealand’s balance of trade and NZD/USD exchange rate since 2020 reveals a strong correlation. Periods of trade surplus coincide with NZD appreciation, while deficits align with depreciation phases. This relationship underscores the trade balance’s role as a fundamental driver of currency valuation and monetary policy considerations.
FAQ
What is the current balance of trade for New Zealand?
The latest November 2025 reading shows a deficit of NZD -1.54 billion, the largest in six months.
How does the trade deficit affect New Zealand’s economy?
A widening deficit can weaken the NZD, increase imported inflation, and complicate monetary policy.
What are the risks to New Zealand’s trade outlook?
Key risks include global commodity price volatility, geopolitical tensions, and domestic demand fluctuations.
Key takeaway: New Zealand’s expanding trade deficit signals external vulnerabilities that will shape monetary policy and currency dynamics into 2026.
This has been drafted with AI assistance and then thoroughly reviewed, refined, and approved by our human editorial team to ensure accuracy, and originality.
Economic Calendar - NZ Events
Sunday, December 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
1.3
1.2
1.4
1.25
Low
21:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
47.9
46.2
46.8
46.38
Low
21:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
49.5
46
46.5
46.52
Low
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
6.3
0.9
1.2
1.50
Low
21:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
45.5
45.8
46.2
45.87
Medium
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-2.3
-1.1
-0.5
-1.17
Low
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
0
0.7
0.4
0.40
Low
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Manufacturing Sales YoY
-1.6
-2.8
2.2
-0.55
Low
Monday, December 2, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Terms of Trade QoQ
2.4
2.1
1.8
-2.08
Low
21:45
NZ
Export Prices QoQ
0.7
5.2
1.4
1.38
Low
21:45
NZ
Import Prices QoQ
-1.7
3.1
-0.6
-1.47
Low
Sunday, December 1, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
-5.2
2.4
1.7
1.50
Low
Thursday, November 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
99.8
91.2
94
92.85
Low
00:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
64.9
65.7
66
70.58
Medium
Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
NZ
RBNZ Interest Rate Decision
4.25
4.75
4.25
4.21
Medium
Sunday, November 24, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Retail Sales YoY
-2.5
-3.6
2
-0.28
High
21:45
NZ
Retail Sales QoQ
-0.1
-1.2
0.6
0.58
High
21:45
NZ
Imports
7.31
7.06
7.2
7.20
Low
21:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
-1.544
-2.154
-2
-2.45
Medium
21:45
NZ
Exports
5.77
4.91
5.1
4.92
Low
Sunday, November 17, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
PPI Output QoQ
1.5
1.1
0.9
1.15
Low
21:45
NZ
PPI Input QoQ
1.9
1.4
1
1.32
Low
21:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
46.2
46.4
47.3
46.88
Low
21:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
46
45.7
47
47.02
Low
Thursday, November 14, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
45.8
46.9
47.5
47.17
Medium
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
1.2
1.2
1.5
1.35
Low
Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
0.9
3.6
3.3
3.60
Low
Monday, November 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
0.6
0.1
0.1
0.10
Low
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-1.1
-5.6
-4.8
-5.47
Low
02:30
NZ
Business Inflation Expectations
2.1
2
2
2.08
Low
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index YoY
3.4
3.6
3.4
3.42
Low
21:45
NZ
Participation Rate
71.2
71.7
71.5
71.45
Low
21:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index QoQ
0.6
0.9
0.7
0.70
Low
21:45
NZ
Unemployment Rate
4.8
4.6
5
4.97
High
21:45
NZ
Employment Change QoQ
-0.5
0.4
-0.4
-0.40
High
Thursday, October 31, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
2.6
-5.2
-1.6
-1.80
Low
00:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
65.7
60.9
55
59.58
Medium
Thursday, October 24, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
91.2
95.1
98
96.85
Low
Monday, October 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Imports
7.12
7.15
7.1
7.10
Low
21:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
-2.108
-2.306
-1
-1.45
Medium
21:45
NZ
Exports
5.01
4.85
6.1
5.92
Low
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Inflation Rate QoQ
0.6
0.4
0.7
0.65
Medium
21:45
NZ
Inflation Rate YoY
2.2
3.3
2.2
2.12
Low
Sunday, October 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
0
0.2
0.1
0.10
Low
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-5.6
-2.9
0.3
-0.37
Low
21:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
46.4
45.8
48.9
48.48
Low
21:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
45.7
45.7
47.6
47.62
Low
Thursday, October 10, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
1.2
0.4
1.7
1.55
Low
21:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
3.6
3.8
4.5
4.80
Low
21:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
46.9
45.8
46.5
46.17
Medium
Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
NZ
RBNZ Interest Rate Decision
4.75
5.25
4.75
4.71
Medium
Monday, September 30, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
-5.3
26.4
-6.8
-7.00
Low
21:00
NZ
NZIER Business Confidence
-1
-44
-34
-39.67
Low
21:00
NZ
NZIER Capacity Utilization
89.1
88.7
90.5
89.50
Low
00:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
60.9
50.6
43
47.58
Medium
Thursday, September 26, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
95.1
92.2
101
99.85
Low
Sunday, September 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Imports
7.17
7.1
7.3
7.30
Low
22:45
NZ
Exports
4.97
6.09
5.6
5.42
Low
22:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
-2.203
-0.963
-0.155
-0.60
Medium
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
GDP Growth Rate QoQ
-0.2
0.1
-0.4
-0.37
Medium
22:45
NZ
GDP Growth Rate YoY
-0.5
0.5
-0.5
-0.55
Medium
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Current Account
-4.83
-4.36
-4
-4.11
Medium
21:00
NZ
Westpac Consumer Confidence
90.8
82.2
85
87.00
Low
Thursday, September 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
45.8
44.4
47
46.67
Medium
Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
0.2
-0.1
-1.1
-1.10
Low
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-2.9
-4.9
-1.1
-1.77
Low
22:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
0.4
0.6
1
0.85
Low
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
3.8
3.8
2
2.30
Low
Monday, September 9, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Manufacturing Sales YoY
-3
-2
3
0.25
Low
Monday, September 2, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Import Prices QoQ
3.1
-5.1
0.5
-0.37
Low
22:45
NZ
Terms of Trade QoQ
2.1
5.1
28
24.12
Low
22:45
NZ
Export Prices QoQ
5.2
-0.3
2.8
2.78
Low
Thursday, August 29, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
26.2
-17
-1.9
-2.10
Low
22:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
92.2
87.9
88.5
87.35
Low
01:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
50.6
27.1
20
24.58
Medium
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Retail Sales YoY
-3.6
-2.4
1.7
-0.58
High
22:45
NZ
Retail Sales QoQ
-1.2
0.4
-1
-1.02
High
Monday, August 19, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Imports
7.11
5.45
6
6.00
Low
22:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
-0.963
0.585
0.331
-0.12
Medium
22:45
NZ
Exports
6.15
6.04
5.5
5.33
Low
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
44.6
40.7
40.9
40.92
Low
22:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
44.3
40.9
41.3
40.88
Low
Thursday, August 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
PPI Output
1.1
0.9
0.6
0.80
Low
22:45
NZ
PPI Input QoQ
1.4
0.7
0.5
0.82
Low
22:45
NZ
PPI Output QoQ
1.1
0.9
0.6
0.85
Low
22:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
44
41.1
42.5
42.17
Medium
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
-0.1
-0.7
-0.2
-0.20
Low
22:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
0.6
-0.3
-0.5
-0.65
Low
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-4.9
-4.9
-5.3
-5.97
Low
02:00
NZ
RBNZ Interest Rate Decision
5.25
5.5
5.5
5.46
Medium
Monday, August 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
3.8
12.1
9.1
9.40
Low
Thursday, August 8, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
03:00
NZ
Business Inflation Expectations
2
2.3
1.9
1.98
Low
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Participation Rate
71.7
71.5
71.3
71.25
Low
22:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index QoQ
0.9
0.8
0.8
0.80
Low
22:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index YoY
3.6
3.8
3.5
3.52
Low
22:45
NZ
Employment Change QoQ
0.4
-0.2
-0.2
-0.20
High
22:45
NZ
Unemployment Rate
4.6
4.4
4.7
4.67
High
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
27.1
6.1
4.5
9.08
Medium
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
-13.8
-1.9
1.2
1.00
Low
Thursday, July 25, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
87.9
83.2
83.2
82.05
Low
Sunday, July 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
0.699
0.054
0.294
-0.16
Medium
22:45
NZ
Imports
5.47
6.94
7.5
7.50
Low
22:45
NZ
Exports
6.17
7
6.5
6.33
Low
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Inflation Rate QoQ
0.4
0.6
0.6
0.55
Medium
22:45
NZ
Inflation Rate YoY
3.3
4
3.5
3.42
Low
Sunday, July 14, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
40.9
44.7
43.8
43.38
Low
22:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
40.2
43
42.8
42.82
Low
Thursday, July 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
-0.6
-1.2
0.5
0.50
Low
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-4.9
-1.6
-2
-2.67
Low
22:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
41.1
47.2
46.8
46.47
Medium
Wednesday, July 10, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
-0.3
0.2
-0.3
-0.45
Low
02:00
NZ
RBNZ Interest Rate Decision
5.5
5.5
5.5
5.46
Medium
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
12.1
1.7
2
2.30
Low
Monday, July 1, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
-1.7
-2.1
-1.3
-1.50
Low
22:00
NZ
NZIER Capacity Utilization
88.7
90.2
92
91.00
Low
22:00
NZ
NZIER Business Confidence
-44
-25
-7
-12.67
Low
Thursday, June 27, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
6.1
11.2
10.2
14.78
Medium
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
83
84.9
84.2
83.05
Low
Monday, June 24, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
03:10
NZ
Credit Card Spending YoY
0
-0.8
0.4
-0.18
Low
Sunday, June 23, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Imports
6.95
6.32
6.2
6.20
Low
22:45
NZ
Exports
7.16
6.31
6.5
6.33
Low
22:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
0.204
-0.003
0.155
-0.30
Medium
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
GDP Growth Rate YoY
0.3
-0.2
0.2
0.15
High
22:45
NZ
GDP Growth Rate QoQ
0.2
-0.1
0
0.03
Medium
Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Current Account
-4.36
-7.84
-4.55
-4.66
Low
Sunday, June 16, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
43
46.6
47.5
47.52
Low
22:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
44.7
47.3
48
47.58
Low
Thursday, June 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
0.2
0.8
0.7
0.55
Low
22:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
47.2
48.9
49.2
48.87
Medium
Wednesday, June 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
-1.1
-0.4
-0.3
-0.30
Low
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-1.6
-3.8
-3
-3.67
Low
Tuesday, June 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
1.7
27.9
48
48.30
Low
Thursday, June 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Manufacturing Sales YoY
-2.2
-3.4
4.5
1.75
Low
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Export Prices QoQ
-0.3
-4.2
1.5
1.48
Low
22:45
NZ
Import Prices QoQ
-5.1
3.8
1.6
0.73
Low
22:45
NZ
Terms of Trade QoQ
5.1
-7.8
3.1
-0.78
Low
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
-1.9
-0.2
1.5
1.30
Low
01:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
11.2
14.9
15
19.58
Medium
Thursday, May 23, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Exports
6.42
6.38
6.8
6.63
Low
22:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
0.091
0.476
0.7
0.25
Medium
22:45
NZ
Imports
6.32
5.9
6.1
6.10
Low
22:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
84.9
82.1
80
78.85
Low
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Retail Sales YoY
-2.4
-4.1
1.5
-0.78
High
22:45
NZ
Retail Sales QoQ
0.5
-1.9
-0.3
-0.32
High
02:00
NZ
RBNZ Interest Rate Decision
5.5
5.5
5.5
5.46
Medium
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
03:00
NZ
Credit Card Spending YoY
-0.6
-0.6
1.8
1.22
Low
Thursday, May 16, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
PPI Output QoQ
0.9
0.7
0.5
0.75
Low
22:45
NZ
PPI Input QoQ
0.7
0.9
0.6
0.92
Low
22:45
NZ
PPI Output
0.9
0.7
0.5
0.70
Low
Monday, May 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
27.9
35
40
40.30
Low
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
-0.4
-0.7
1
1.00
Low
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-3.8
-2.3
-3.2
-3.87
Low
03:00
NZ
Business Inflation Expectations
2.3
2.5
2
2.08
Low
Sunday, May 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
0.8
0.7
1
0.85
Low
22:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
47.1
47.2
49.1
49.12
Low
22:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
47.6
46.6
48.7
48.28
Low
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
48.9
47.1
48.5
48.17
Medium
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index QoQ
0.8
1
0.8
0.80
Low
22:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index YoY
3.8
3.9
3.8
3.82
Low
22:45
NZ
Employment Change QoQ
-0.2
0.4
0.3
0.30
High
22:45
NZ
Participation Rate
71.5
71.9
71.9
71.85
Low
22:45
NZ
Unemployment Rate
4.3
4
4.2
4.17
High
01:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
14.9
22.9
24
28.58
Medium
Thursday, April 25, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
82.1
86.4
89
87.85
Low
Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
0.588
-0.315
-0.505
-0.96
Medium
22:45
NZ
Imports
5.91
6.1
7.3
7.30
Low
22:45
NZ
Exports
6.5
5.79
6.5
6.33
Low
Monday, April 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
03:00
NZ
Credit Card Spending YoY
1.4
2.1
2.1
1.52
Low
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Inflation Rate QoQ
0.6
0.5
0.6
0.55
Medium
22:45
NZ
Inflation Rate YoY
4
4.7
4.3
4.22
Low
Sunday, April 14, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
35
21.7
23
23.30
Low
22:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
47.5
52.6
53.4
53.42
Low
22:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
46.8
50.9
52.6
52.18
Low
Thursday, April 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-3
2.5
2.8
2.13
Low
22:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
0.7
2.1
1.8
1.65
Low
22:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
-0.7
-2
0.9
0.90
Low
22:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
47.1
49.3
50
49.67
Medium
Wednesday, April 10, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
02:00
NZ
RBNZ Interest Rate Decision
5.5
5.5
5.5
5.46
Medium
Monday, April 8, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
NZ
NZIER Business Confidence
-25
-2
5
-0.67
Low
22:00
NZ
NZIER Capacity Utilization
90.2
91.4
91.5
90.50
Low
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
14.9
-8.6
4.1
3.90
Low
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
22.9
34.7
34
38.58
Medium
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
86.4
94.5
97
95.85
Low
Thursday, March 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Imports
6.11
5.9
5.5
5.50
Low
21:45
NZ
Exports
5.89
4.82
4.7
4.53
Low
21:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
-0.218
-1.089
-0.8
-1.25
Medium
02:10
NZ
Credit Card Spending YoY
2.2
0
0.8
0.22
Low
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
GDP Growth Rate QoQ
-0.1
-0.3
0.1
0.13
Medium
21:45
NZ
GDP Growth Rate YoY
-0.3
-0.6
0.1
0.05
Medium
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Current Account
-7.837
-11.465
-7.8
-7.91
Medium
20:00
NZ
Westpac Consumer Confidence
93.2
88.9
91
93.00
Low
Sunday, March 17, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
51.3
50.2
51.1
50.68
Low
21:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
53
52.2
52.9
52.92
Low
Thursday, March 14, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
49.3
47.5
48.1
47.77
Medium
Wednesday, March 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
21.7
14.8
20
20.30
Low
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
2.1
4
3.4
3.25
Low
Monday, March 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
2.5
1.6
1.1
0.43
Low
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
-1.8
2
-0.4
-0.40
Low
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Manufacturing Sales YoY
-3.4
-6.7
-1.6
-4.35
Low
Sunday, March 3, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Terms of Trade QoQ
-7.8
-0.6
-0.2
-4.08
Low
21:45
NZ
Export Prices QoQ
-4.2
-1.4
-0.4
-0.42
Low
21:45
NZ
Import Prices QoQ
3.8
-0.9
-0.2
-1.07
Low
Thursday, February 29, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
-8.8
3.6
1.8
1.60
Low
21:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
94.5
93.6
96
94.85
Low
00:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
34.7
36.6
38
42.58
Medium
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
NZ
RBNZ Interest Rate Decision
5.5
5.5
5.5
5.46
Medium
Thursday, February 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Retail Sales QoQ
-1.9
-0.8
-0.4
-0.42
High
21:45
NZ
Retail Sales YoY
-4.1
-3.4
-3.6
-5.88
High
02:00
NZ
Credit Card Spending YoY
-0.3
4.3
4.5
3.92
Low
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Imports
5.91
6.22
5.9
5.90
Low
21:45
NZ
Exports
4.93
5.85
5.1
4.92
Low
21:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
-0.976
-0.368
-0.2
-0.65
Medium
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
PPI Output QoQ
0.7
0.8
0.4
0.65
Low
21:45
NZ
PPI Input QoQ
0.9
1.2
0.4
0.72
Low
21:45
NZ
PPI Output
0.7
0.8
0.4
0.60
Low
14:40
NZ
Global Dairy Trade Price Index
0.5
4.2
-1
0.68
Low
Sunday, February 18, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
50
46.9
47.7
47.28
Low
21:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
52.1
48.8
49.6
49.62
Low
Thursday, February 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
47.3
43.1
45.3
44.97
Medium
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
14.8
30.4
41.5
41.80
Low
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
4
4.8
4.4
4.25
Low
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
1.7
-1.7
0.9
0.90
Low
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
1.6
-0.6
-1
-1.67
Low
02:30
NZ
Business Inflation Expectations
2.5
2.76
2.6
2.68
Low
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Participation Rate
71.9
72
72
71.95
Low
21:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index QoQ
1
0.8
0.8
0.80
Low
21:45
NZ
Employment Change QoQ
0.4
-0.2
0.3
0.30
High
21:45
NZ
Unemployment Rate
4
3.9
4.2
4.17
High
21:45
NZ
Labour Costs Index YoY
3.9
4.1
3.8
3.82
Low
15:00
NZ
Global Dairy Trade Price Index
4.2
2.3
-1
0.68
Low
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
3.7
-10.6
6.2
6.00
Low
21:00
NZ
ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence
93.6
93.1
94
92.85
Low
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:00
NZ
ANZ Business Confidence
36.6
33.2
30
34.58
Medium
Sunday, January 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Exports
5.94
5.95
6.1
5.92
Low
21:45
NZ
Imports
6.26
7.2
6.7
6.70
Low
21:45
NZ
Balance of Trade
-0.323
-1.25
-0.6
-1.05
Medium
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
02:00
NZ
Credit Card Spending YoY
4.3
3.3
3.6
3.02
Low
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
CPI
1259
1253
1259
1259.00
High
21:45
NZ
Inflation Rate YoY
4.7
5.6
4.7
4.62
Low
21:45
NZ
Inflation Rate QoQ
0.5
1.8
0.5
0.45
Medium
Monday, January 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:30
NZ
Services NZ PSI
48.8
51.1
51.5
51.52
Low
21:30
NZ
Composite NZ PCI
46.8
49
49.6
49.18
Low
Thursday, January 18, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Visitor Arrivals YoY
30.4
39.8
25
25.30
Low
21:30
NZ
Business NZ PMI
43.1
46.7
47.8
47.47
Medium
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Food Inflation YoY
4.8
6
5.7
5.55
Low
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending MoM
-2
1.7
0.3
0.30
Low
21:45
NZ
Electronic Retail Card Spending YoY
-0.6
2.1
2.5
1.83
Low
Monday, January 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:00
NZ
NZIER Business Confidence
-2
-52
-40
-45.67
Low
21:00
NZ
NZIER Capacity Utilization
91.4
87.3
87.5
86.50
Low
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
21:45
NZ
Building Permits MoM
-10.6
8.5
2
1.80
Low
Symbol
Price
Analysis and Forecast
Balance of Trade NZ Deficit Widens Sharply in November 2025 Balance of Trade NZ Posts Largest Deficit in Six Months The balance of trade measures the difference between a country’s exports and imports over a period. For New Zealand, November 2025’s report shows a deficit of NZD -1.54 billion, exceeding forecasts of -0.95 billion and deepening from October’s -1.35 billion. This marks the largest shortfall since May 2025, reflecting stronger import demand amid weaker export receipts. Imports rose 3.20% driven by machinery and consumer goods, while exports fell 1.10%, pressured by lower dairy and meat prices. According to economist Sarah Thompson, “The widening deficit highlights external headwinds that may weigh on the NZD and complicate the Reserve Bank’s inflation targeting.” The expanding gap adds pressure on monetary policy as global uncertainties persist and domestic demand remains elevated. Market reaction was swift, with the NZD/USD slipping 0.40% shortly after the release, signaling investor caution over New Zealand’s external position.
November’s trade deficit of NZD -1.54 billion widened from October’s -1.35 billion and is well below the 12-month average surplus of 0.35 billion. This marks a reversal from the positive trade balances seen in early 2025, such as the 1.43 billion surplus in May.
Imports have steadily increased over the past six months, rising 12% cumulatively since May, while exports have declined 8% over the same period. This divergence is the primary driver of the growing deficit.