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Why did the cost of living rise 4.1% in the year to June 2026?

04/08/2026

The cost of living rose 4.1% in the year to June 2026. The main drivers were fuel (pushed up by the war on Iran), electricity and council rates, rather than broad-based price pressure across the economy.

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Why did the cost of living rise 4.1% in the year...

Published 04/08/2026

The cost of living rose 4.1% in the year to June 2026. The main drivers were fuel (pushed up by the war on Iran), electricity and council rates, rather than broad-based price pressure across the economy.

read more

Hunger games: Why nz’s future workforce is being left behind

Published 22/07/2026

Youth unemployment is undercutting NZ's job market recovery, with 93,000 young Kiwis now not in employment, education, or training. Economist Nihal Sohanpal looks at why, and what can be done about it.

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The cost of being a student

Published 05/03/2026

Being a student used to be tight. Now it could easily be a trap for the unwary.

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Middle East escalations: what might it mean for financial markets?

Published 02/03/2026

The weekend strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel have added another layer of uncertainty to an already fragile global environment. Shamubeel discusses what the latest developments could mean for oil, financial markets and investors.

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AI bubble - or the start of something bigger?

Published 11/12/2025

Shamubeel discusses whether he thinks we're actually in an 'AI bubble', what might happen in markets and the broader financial system if said bubble pops, and what to do to in order to prepare for whatever comes next

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KiwiSaver 2.0: Why increasing contributions is only the first step

Published 24/11/2025

Luxon’s 12.5% proposal marks a turning point for KiwiSaver, but contribution increases alone won’t future-proof our retirement system. Real progress will come from thoughtful reforms that make saving fairer and more sustainable.

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This recession is deeper and longer than the GFC

Published 18/09/2025

New Zealand’s recession is deeper and longer than past downturns, driven by high interest rates, falling investment and shrinking household spending power. Shamubeel Eaqub argues urgent policy action is needed to stabilise the economy and prepare for recovery.

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The cost of bread and milk

Published 12/09/2025

A quick run to the shop for milk and bread has gotten expensive fast. It feels symptomatic of the everyday costs that are making so many Kiwis feel worse off.

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Business is tough - so why are more businesses opening?

Published 01/09/2025

Despite a tough recession with many business closures and shrinking job numbers, New Zealand still saw more businesses start than shut in the past year. What does this unusual growth mean?

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