Reporting on data for 1st Quarter 2026, ASB ranked Hawke’s Bay’s economic momentum as 5th in the country, up from 11th in the previous quarter. Our region hasn’t been in this rarified air since ranking #6 in Q3 2024.

Here’s what ASB had to say …

“Hawke’s Bay made a big jump into the top half of the ranking, landing at fifth place.

Steady consumer confidence (combined with Gisborne) and strong growth in the construction sector were the primary drivers of Hawke’s Bay’s performance in Q1. A strong harvest season and robust demand for apples, alongside recovery in tourist arrivals, provided meaningful support to the regional economy.

Building consent growth in the region recorded the fastest pace in the country, led by 106.2% growth in non-residential construction.

Consumer sentiment appeared to translate into stronger retail sales, with growth surpassing the national average – contrasting notably with Gisborne. That said, residents remained cautious on big-ticket discretionary spending, particularly motor vehicles.

Nonetheless, a weak housing market – characterised by declines in house prices and only modest improvement in sales activity – kept a lid on Hawke’s Bay’s overall performance on the scoreboard.

With the apple season wrapping up, and high living costs likely weighing on the Bay’s economic activity, ongoing Cyclone Gabrielle recovery activity will need to do the heavy lifting in the quarters ahead.”

Seems a rather rosy picture to BayBuzz. Are you feeling economic buzz around the region?