Household net disposable income across New Zealand rose 1.5 percent to NZD $59.4 billion in the December 2024 quarter, according to new figures from Stats NZ.

The main contributor to this growth was a 6.5 percent increase in income earned by self-employed business owners—particularly those in agriculture, forestry, and residential rental property sectors.

James Mitchell, institutional sectors spokesperson, said the lift came “despite a decrease in salaries and wages for the second quarter in a row,” thanks to the strong gains from self-employed earnings and partnerships.

Household net disposable income reflects the money available after income and tax adjustments—it’s what households have to spend, save, or invest.

At the same time, household spending rose by 0.8 percent to NZD $60.9 billion, with services leading the charge.

Kiwis spent more on flights (both international and domestic), along with restaurant and takeaway meals.

The increase in income outpaced the rise in spending, which saw household saving improve by NZD $429 million—though the overall balance remained negative at -NZD $1.4 billion.

While these figures don’t reflect individual households, they provide insight into wider economic activity—especially relevant for Coasties running local businesses or navigating changes in the cost of living.

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