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. 

Stats NZ’s latest electronic card transactions for January 2026 shows actual core retail card spending rose by 1.1% year-on-year. It follows December’s 0.5% drop in spending on the year earlier. 

“The spending figures from January shows retailers have received a small spending boost to start the year, which will have been particularly welcome after a muted sales period in the traditionally-strong December Christmas spending rush,” Ms Young says. 

“While durables experienced a decline in card spending of of 1.5%, all other core retail sectors experienced a rise, which will have been particularly well-received by the struggling apparel sector with their 1.4% boost compared to the previous year.” 

“Surveys have been reporting a lift in consumer confidence in recent months, and retailers will be hoping that those green shoots are now starting to filter through to the shop floor,” Ms Young says.  

“However, our members are reporting they have been adjusting sales targets and stock levels to better reflect the recent behaviour of shoppers, who have been deeply impacted by the high cost-of-living.” 

Ms Young says that caution from retailers is likely to continue for the time being, with card spending data also showing yet another increase in the amount of credit card transactions (70.9%) compared to debit transactions (29.1%).  

“The average spend per transaction is also back down to $55, which shows while there is slightly more willingness to by households o pull out the wallet, shoppers are remaining cautious about how much they are spending.” 

For further information or to set up an interview please contact Carolyn on 021 449 452

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