Exports underpin strong economic growth
The New Zealand economy continued to grow solidly in the June quarter, posting a 0.8 per cent increase in GDP, taking
New Zealand's growth rate for the year to 2.7 per cent, Finance Minister Steven Joyce says.
“Our economy continues to outperform many developed nations, underpinned by strong export and domestic demand,” Mr Joyce
says. “It is still a challenging international environment, which is why we need to continue with an economic plan that
is working for New Zealand.”
New Zealand’s growth over the last year has exceeded that of Australia, the United Kingdom, the USA, the Euro area,
Japan, and the average across the whole OECD.
Growth in the quarter was across 11 of 16 industries, including:
• Retail, trade and accommodation (up 2.8 per cent)
• Manufacturing activity (up 1.8 per cent)
• Business services (up 1.1 per cent)
• Transport, postal and warehousing activity (up 3.5 per cent)
Exports rose 5.2 per cent, with exports of goods posting its biggest quarterly increase in 20 years. Overall growth in
the quarter was partially offset by the construction sector, which contracted 1.1 per cent in the quarter but up 6.4 per
cent from June 2016.
Today’s GDP figures followed on from the release of New Zealand's external accounts yesterday, which showed a current
account deficit of 2.8 per cent for the June year.
"This week’s economic growth statistics show that the Government’s consistent economic plan is encouraging businesses to
invest and grow more jobs for New Zealanders. It is important to maintain and support business confidence if we are to
continue our progress in the years ahead."
ENDS