Retail card spending reached its peak so far this year in April, increasing 4 per cent ($234 million) month on month, according to Stats NZ.
Card spending overall was up across all retail sectors. Apparel sector accounted for the highest month-on-month increase in spending, surging $26 million, equivalent to 8 per cent, compared to March. Consumables, which includes supermarket shopping, was the only sector that saw a decrease in spending, dropping $8.7 million (0.4 per cent) year on year.
“Having returned to our normal routines, it is not surprising to see a slight dip in supermarket spending and a large increase in restaurant spending this April,” said Geraldine Duoba, business statistics manager.
“A big bounce back between last April and this month was inevitable, with the previous April being the first full month New Zealand spent in lockdown,” Duoba said.
According to the report, card spending in April increased by 117 per cent year on year, up $4.3 billion.
“With opportunities for international travel still really limited this year, Kiwis are focusing instead on upgrading their living spaces and leisure activities,” Duoba added.
