New Zealand Manufacturing Index Hits Highest Level Since 2017

New Zealand's manufacturing sector experienced a powerful recovery in June 2026, with the BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI) jumping to 59.7 from 51.3 in May. This figure represents the strongest expansion since July 2021 and the highest reading since May 2017, excluding the post-pandemic bounce-back.

BusinessNZ and the Bank of New Zealand reported that growth was broad-based, led by a surge in new orders (64.1), followed by production (59.4), deliveries (57.3), finished stocks (56.9), and employment (55.8). According to J.P. Morgan Global Manufacturing PMI data, New Zealand's performance outpaced major economies including the United States, China, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

While manufacturers still face headwinds from Middle East tensions, elevated fuel prices, and cost-of-living pressures, these factors were outweighed by renewed business confidence and stronger sales. The sector currently employs over 220,000 people and accounts for approximately 60 percent of the country's exports.