Online spending in New Zealand saw a significant increase in 2025, growing at more than double the rate of international businesses, with total online spending rising by 10%. According to NZ Post’s e-commerce market sentiments report, Kiwis conducted nearly six million more online transactions compared to 2024, marking a 6% increase that surpassed the 2% growth in traditional in-store spending. Spending with domestic businesses climbed 11%, while international spending grew by just 5%, with 79.6% of online purchases made from local retailers. The average transaction size in 2025 increased by 4% to $120, while domestic online shoppers spent 5% more on average, contrasting with a 1% decline in spending per international shopper.
Why It Matters
This surge in online spending reflects a broader trend in New Zealand’s retail landscape, where consumers increasingly prefer to shop online, particularly with local businesses. The growth in domestic e-commerce is significant given the competitive nature of global online markets. Historically, New Zealand has seen a steady shift towards digital shopping, with the pandemic accelerating this transition. The data indicates that as consumer habits evolve, local retailers are capturing a larger share of online spending, highlighting the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences in the retail sector.
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