Consumer prices are rising at the fastest pace since 1990... with inflation hitting 5.9 per cent at the end of 2021.

Figures from Statistics New Zealand show a further sharp lift in the cost of construction, petrol and rents pushed the consumer price index up 1.4 per cent in the final three months of the year.

Simon Barnett & James Daniels spoke with Principal Economist and Director of Infometrics Brad Olden.

LISTEN ABOVE