A big jump in spending has retailers smiling ... with December sales figures up by seven percent compared with last year.
Paymark stats show Kiwis spent more than four-point two billion dollars in the first three weeks of the month, amid a positive economic outlook.
Spokesman Paul Brislen said some regions are splashing out more than others.
"It's all tracking the right way for the retailers, we've seen some very strong numbers- 12 percent in the Hawkes Bay, 10 percent in Gisborne" he said.
Spending on alcohol, accommodation and clothing is up significantly.
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