Harvey Norman’s New Zealand business grew 6.9 per cent in the first half of the 2015 financial year.

Like for like sales were less buoyant, at 1.9 per cent.

One new Harvey Norman store was opened in the six month period at Napier, on the North Island.

Global sales for the electrical and furniture chain came in a A$3 million, up 3.2 per cent or 3.4 per cent on a like for like basis.

Sales globally were positively affected bt a 3.6 per cent appreciation in the New Zealand dollar.

Harvey Norman chairman, Gerry Harvey said the strength of the company’s online strategy and the benefits of the integrated Harvey Norman system helped the result.

“Our business has shown positive momentum for some time now, and it’s great to see improved segment performances in the half year,” he said.