BusinessNZ Manufacturing Overview

Manufacturing Sector Maintains Steady Growth in February

The Manufacturing Performance Index (PMI) remained stable at 55.0 for February, continuing the trend observed since December. This consistent level indicates that manufacturing activity is expanding at a healthy pace.

Although recent economic indicators have been overshadowed by developments in the Middle East, the PMI’s strong reading—well above the neutral threshold of 50—offers a positive signal for the sector. It is still too soon for the index to reflect any potential effects from the ongoing conflict.

Stronger Demand Drives Growth

A closer look at the PMI’s components reveals that the manufacturing industry entered 2026 on solid footing. Both new orders and production indices reached 57.6, highlighting robust demand and output at the start of the year.