Spending on Valentine’s Day (14th February) through Paymark totalled $204 million, up $10 million or 5. 3% on the level of spending on the previous Thursday (7th February).

December again proved to be a busy month with spending topping $6 billion though the Paymark network but the growth rate was low. There were 120.

The home straight, the final furlong. The last mile. Here we are in the final run up to Christmas.

The first seven days of December were busy for most merchants, as to be expected this time of year, but the annual growth rate was low.

The early days of the Christmas spending spree have been choppy. Underlying Paymark spending amongst non-fuel merchants was down 0.

One day of specials on Black Friday is just not enough. Cyber Monday was an opportunity for the online platforms to also join in the action.

Black Friday is now well and truly on the New Zealand retail calendar.

Google and Paymark have teamed up to bring Google Pay to New Zealand’s online merchants. Paymark is the first homegrown Kiwi processor to offer this capability.

The annual growth rate picked up in Auckland/Northland during October, rising to 5. 1% which is above the 12-month average of 3. 3%.

September continued the pickup for Paymark merchants. Underlying spending increased a further 1.

Businesses may be in for a pleasant surprise in the next few months judging by the spending patterns through Paymark in recent weeks.