Kiwibank's annual regional report shows a recovering NZ economy, except Wellington facing decline due to public sector cuts.

Kiwibank's annual regional report reveals a recovering New Zealand economy, with each region showing improvements except Wellington, which faces decline due to public sector cuts. The South Island leads with Southland having the highest score, driven by a construction boom. House prices are recovering, but unemployment is projected to rise. Retail sales contracted nationwide, with Wellington seeing the most significant decline.