News

New Zealand businesses will have a better shot at winning government contracts as a result of changes to government procurement rules, Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis says. 

“The new rules agreed to by Cabinet will take effect on 1 December.

The economy contracted in the June 2025 quarter, while unemployment continued to rise. 

Cabinet has agreed to policy proposals for new employment leave legislation: a simpler and more workable replacement for the Holidays Act 2003.

Business Central welcomes the Government’s decision to replace the Holidays Act with a new Employment Leave Act next year.

Economic data released reflects the impact of global uncertainty on consumers and businesses, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. 

Total actual filled jobs in the June 2025 quarter were 2.26 million.

In the June 2025 quarter (compared with the March 2025 quarter): 

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says a continuation of a series of regional employment events reinforces a cross-sector commitment to get Kiwis into jobs, boost employment and grow the economy. 

The New Zealand–United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has officially entered into force, opening the door to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Agriculture, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay announced. 

Falling interest rates are good for growth, businesses, jobs and Kiwis paying off their mortgages, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

The Reserve Bank announced that it was reducing the Official Cash Rate (OCR) from 3.25 to 3% and signalled two further reductions this year.

Labour market statistics provide a picture of the New Zealand labour market, including unemployment and employment rates, demand for labour, and changes in wages and salaries. 

In the June 2025 quarter, compared with the March 2025 quarter, the:

More than 5,300 young Kiwis will benefit from new funding which invests in their business potential, develops enterprise skills, and better prepares them for their future work environment, Youth Minister James Meager has announced.

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden is consulting with manufacturers to help businesses focus on managing genuine risks rather than navigating red tape.