NZ consumer price index: Quarter ending March 2026

Overview of Price Fluctuations in March 2026

The table below highlights the shifts in prices for the March 2026 quarter.

During this period, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 0.9 percent. This overall rise was mainly driven by:

• Petrol prices, which climbed by 3.5 percent, accounting for 13.4 percent of the total CPI increase.
• Pharmaceutical products, which surged by 17.7 percent, contributing 13.0 percent to the overall rise.
• Confectionery, nuts, and snacks, which went up by 6.2 percent, making up 9.8 percent of the total increase.

Conversely, some categories saw price reductions, including:

• International airfares, which dropped by 7.0 percent, resulting in a -14.6 percent impact on the overall CPI.
• Prepaid overseas accommodation (further details available in the full report).