The persistent strength of the New Zealand dollar has been a “significant headwind” to the economy as it erodes export earnings and encourages local consumers to buy foreign-made goods, according to Reserve Bank governor Graeme Wheeler. The Reserve Bank has raised its forecasts for the currency over the coming two years, as international money markets chase yields in a low …

Trade analysts and stakeholders in Auckland for the TPP talks have told newzealandinc.com not to expect any progress on “sensitive” issues – including agricultural access – during this the 15th round of negotiations. It’s all “too hard”; “too early” – which doesn’t really cut it if this deal is to be in sufficient shape for final-decision making by political players …

The New Zealand dollar rose against most of its trading peers after weaker economic data in the euro zone and glimmers of hope in stalled Washington talks over the fiscal cliff, which helped lift equities. The kiwi dollar rose to 82.55 US cents from 82.48 cents at 5pm in Wellington yesterday. The trade-weighted index rose to 73.66 from 73.52. The …