The Reserve Bank's introduction of limits to low-equity mortgage lending last year had "a dampening" impact on house price inflation, Graeme Wheeler said today.

NZ's annual net migration rose to a record in September, beating government forecasts, as the inflow was spurred by Kiwis returning home from Australia.

The general election failed to dent September house sale volumes which rose nearly 8 per cent last month.

The Reserve Bank has released an animated educational video explaining the functions of money in New Zealand.

New Zealand food prices fell in September, as cheaper cheese and seasonal fruit and vegetables offset rising meat prices.

Think about it like this: spending money on roads and bridges might boost the economy more than just the money the government directly spends.