# New Zealand retail insolvency increase

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-retail-insolvency-increase
> Updated: 2026-09-15T19:02:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

In the second quarter of 2026, New Zealand experienced a 74 per cent surge in retail insolvencies, rising from 39 to 68 cases. This represented the largest increase among all major industry sectors. 

BWA Insolvency principal Bryan Williams noted that “business stress has changed address,” indicating that financial strain was shifting from the construction sector toward the retail sector. While total insolvency cases across the country remained relatively stable with a 3 per cent year-on-year increase, retailers faced significant pressure from weak sales volumes and high operating costs.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-15: New Zealand business and tourism sectors see various shifts

New Zealand business news includes potential Foodstuffs restructuring, a decline in August hospitality spending, improvements in Air New Zealand's service, and the World Surf League returning to Raglan in 2027.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealand-retail-spending-falls-as-hamilton-airport-eyes-growth

### 2026-08-20: New Zealand retail insolvencies surge 74 per cent in Q2

Retail insolvencies in New Zealand rose 74 per cent in Q2, signaling a shift in business stress from construction to the retail sector amid cautious consumer spending.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealand-retail-insolvencies-surge-74-per-cent-in-q2

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Cite as: New Zealand retail insolvency increase. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-zealand-retail-insolvency-increase