Activity in the services sector has risen to its highest level in two years.
The BNZ Capital Business NZ Performance of Services Index rose 6 points to 56 in November compared with the previous month, with strong gains in sales and new orders.
A reading above 50 indicates the service sector is expanding.
The BNZ says the data is consistent with its own forecasts the economy will grow 2.5% next year, but it warns rising interest rates in 2010 will increase debt costs for companies and slow consumer spending.
