New Zealand's Consumer Price Index (CPI) growth took a slowdown in the fourth quarter of 2025, settling at 0.6% as per the latest data updated on January 22, 2026. This marks a noticeable drop from the 1.0% increase recorded in the previous quarter.
The Quarter-over-Quarter comparison highlights a deceleration in inflationary pressures, as the data show the actual change for the fourth quarter against the third quarter of the same year. During the third quarter, the CPI witnessed a robust rise of 1.0%, contrasting with the current quarter's more modest growth.
This recent indicator underscores wavering inflation trends, as New Zealand grapples with the dynamic economic variables that influence consumer prices. Policymakers and market analysts will likely interpret this data as a vital yardstick to gauge economic health and may look to adjust fiscal and monetary strategies accordingly. The slowing CPI growth could usher in discussions on stabilizing inflation without stifling economic growth.