Manufacturing activity has expanded for the first time in more than a year and a half.
The BNZ Capital-Business New Zealand Performance of Manufacturing Index rose nearly 3 points to 51.7 in September, with growth in new orders, production and employment.
A reading above 50 indicates manufacturing activity is expanding.
BNZ Capital economist Mark Walton says the sector has shown signs of slow improvement over the past six months and it appears sustainable.
