The BusinessNZ Performance of Composite Index increased to 53.4 in September 2026 from a marginally revised 52.4 in the previous month, marking the fourth straight month of expansion. It was the highest reading since June, with manufacturing sector growth accelerating while the services sector continued to expand. Manufacturing activity expanded at a stronger pace despite pressure from high fuel prices and ahead of the general election. Meanwhile, services sector growth eased slightly as growth in new orders slowed.