Centrist: Record Boxing Day sales amid mounting financial pressure

Boxing Day sales were up by 13% this year, with New Zealanders spending nearly $68m. This is in contrast to subdued pre-Christmas activity, which dropped nearly 1% compared to 2023. Shoppers hit up bookshops, clothing stores, and hardware outlets, according to payment processor Worldline.

If it looks like debt, let’s treat it like debt – ‘buy now, pay later’ schemes need firmer regulation in NZ

There are few stores without an Afterpay logo displayed on the door, or that don’t offer Laybuy at their online checkout. And these schemes are particularly popular with younger consumers.

But what price might these buyers be paying for the conveniences of buy now, pay later? Our new research investigated how young New Zealand adults use debt. What we found suggests greater regulation of delayed payment schemes is needed.