The March quarter showed the Manawatū economy continuing to move into recovery, with growth returning across key indicators after a challenging period. 

Regional GDP reached $8.764 billion in the year to March 2026, while consumer spending, employment conditions and business activity all showed signs of improvement. However, the February oil shock and resulting price volatility have added to the higher costs and uncertainty households and businesses are navigating, meaning the recovery remains gradual.

Manawatū’s diverse economic base continues to provide resilience, with strength across government, health, education, defence, agriculture, logistics and professional services helping to support the region through changing conditions.

Investment remains a positive signal, with non-residential construction activity continuing to grow and major commercial, industrial and infrastructure projects supporting long-term confidence in the region.

“The regional economic recovery continues, but the environment has become more complex. Manawatū’s strength has always been its diversity, when one part of the economy faces pressure, other sectors continue to provide stability. That resilience is what gives us confidence in the region’s ability to keep moving forward.”  

 - Notes Jerry Shearman, CEDA's Tumuaki - Chief Executive.