Is New Zealand still in a cost of living crisis? An economist thinks not

An economist says New Zealand is no longer in a cost of living crisis.  

New Stats NZ data shows the cost of living for the average New Zealand household increased 3.2% in the year to June 2026 quarter.  

It’s the largest jump in more than four years, with higher petrol prices accounting for almost one-third of the annual increase 

Westpac Chief Economist Kelly Eckhold told Mike Hosking it isn’t a crisis, but concedes it’s not a comfortable situation for many.  

He says cost increases are outstripping wage increases, but it isn’t as bad as the post-Covid era. 

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