Retailers report a small but positive increase in consumer spending in January 2026, amid ongoing concerns about the cost of living and cautious spending habits, despite some sector-specific gains.
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adjustments driven by cautious shopper behaviour
****Retailers experience small spending boost to start the New Year**** \\ \\ **16 February 2026**\\ \\ The latest card spending data shows retailers experienced a much-needed uptick in consumer spending to start the New Year, Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young says.Spotted something wrong on this page? Report a correction.