New Zealand card spending in July surged 0.9 per cent month on month, with $77 million more spent, according to Stats NZ. 

Retail card spending accounted for almost three-quarters of total card spending, increasing 0.6 per cent, equivalent to $39 million. The upward trend was mainly driven by consumables – including spending on groceries, liquor, and specialised food – which was up 0.7 per cent. 

“Over the last few months, people used their cards to stock their pantries,” said Ricky Ho, business performance manager at Stats NZ. “However, this month, they extended their wardrobes as well.” 

Card spending in apparel accounted for the largest percentage increase which was 3.6 per cent ($12 million).

“We usually see more clothing being purchased around July, but the increase seen this month comes on the back of a drop in spending last month,” Ho added.

Meanwhile, spending on durable goods such as furniture, hardware, and appliances, recorded 0.3-per-cent growth, which is equivalent to $4 million.