Brad Olsen and Nick Brunsdon explore the latest regional and tourism trends from the June 2026 Quarterly Economic Monitor, including the South Island’s continued economic strength, the North Island’s gradual recovery, and the impact of travel, tourism, primary industries, and the Iran War on economic activity.

Regional and tourism differences

Brad Olsen, Chief Executive and Chief Economist, and Gareth Kiernan, Chief Forecaster and Director, will share their insights on the latest economic and business trends and what they mean for businesses and local economies across New Zealand.

The outlook for business activity

<ul><li data-block-key="22jkn">Is the worst finally behind New Zealand's economy?</li><li data-block-key="61kkg">How much has the Middle East conflict changed New Zealand's outlook?</li><li data-block-key="cscgq">What's standing between now and a lasting recovery?</li></ul><a href="/article/2026-07-moderating-fuel-prices-open-road-to-recovery" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Read the forecast story</a>

Forecast in five - July 2026

Infometrics CE and Principal Economist Brad Olsen and Chief Forecaster Gareth Kiernan discuss how the primary sector is performing.

Primary sector progress

Infometrics CE and Principal Economist Brad Olsen and Chief Forecaster Gareth Kiernan discuss the latest RBNZ decision and Budget 2026.

Recapping Budget 2026 and the May MPS

3-3 Split vote as OCR remains on hold - for now

Unemployment down a touch to 5.3%

Infometrics CE and Principal Economist Brad Olsen and Chief Forecaster Gareth Kiernan discuss the economic forecast arising from the Iran War.

Forecast economic impact of the Iran War

Inflation unchanged at 3.1% in Q1 2026

<ul><li data-block-key="2ecw2">How much has the Middle East conflict changed New Zealand's economic outlook?</li><li data-block-key="dtuns">Could higher fuel prices force interest rates even higher?</li><li data-block-key="5al2i">How long will New Zealand's economic recovery be pushed back?</li></ul><a href="/article/2026-04-fuel-shock-stalls-recovery-before-it-has-started" class="btn btn-primary btn-sm">Read the forecast story</a>

Unemployment down a touch to 5.3%

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