The devil’s in the detail

Key highlights Employment much stronger than expected, surging 1.4% and seeing the unemployment rate ease to 6.6%. Strength in wider economy offset by weakness in Christchurch, with hours worked falling sharply. Likely to see further weakness in future employment data, when impact of February earthquake included.     Report prepared by: Jane Turner ASB Economist Phone: +64 9 374 8185 Fax: +64 9 302 0992