NZ Monetary Policy Statement - May 2026

In the 12 months to April 2026: • The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 4.2%, down from 4.6% in the 12 months to March 2026. • The largest contributors to annual inflation were ...

The Monetary Policy Committee today voted to hold the OCR at 2.25 percent. Annual consumers price inflation was 3.1 percent in the March quarter. The Middle East conflict is increasing near-term inflation and weakening economic activity. Inflation is expected to peak at 4.3 percent in the September quarter and to return to the 2 percent target mid-point in mid-2027. Currently, core inflation, wage growth, and medium- to long-term inflation expectations remain consistent with inflation returning to the 2-percent target mid-point over the medium term. The global economic backdrop remains uncertain. Supply chain disruptions, higher prices for petrochemicals, and a more fragmented global trading environment are impacting the outlook. Growth will vary across countries, reflecting differences in energy intensity, fiscal support, and exposure to AI investment. On balance, New Zealand’s trading partners are expected to see weaker growth and higher inflation. Domestically, business contacts and surveys indicate weaker confidence and spending. For some firms, rising costs are squeezing profit margins and curbing investment and hiring intentions. Consumer confidence has fallen sharply, and the housing market remains weak. Economic conditions continue to differ across regions and sectors, with high commodity prices supporting incomes in regional New Zealand. The Monetary Policy Committee today voted to hold the Official Cash Rate (OCR) at 2.25%. • Prior to The Middle East conflict, New Zealand was showing signs of economic recovery. The conflict is increasing near-term inflation and weakening economic activity. • Inflation is… pic.twitter.com/RpKTLT9RHC RBNZ vote was 3-3 to hold with the chair voting to keep policy steady. Market was only 17% priced for a hike today. RBNZ SAYS INTEREST RATES MAY NEED TO INCREASE EARLIER AND MOVE HIGHER THAN OUTLINED IN THE FEBRUARY POLICY OUTLOOK. ... RBNZ Minutes revealed member Carl Hansen argued for an immediate rate hike to preserve flexibility for additional tightening in July.