The service sector is maintaining positive growth this year, with the performance index for June remaining in expansion, led by the South.
Readings above 50 represent expansion, and below, contraction.
The Otago Southland region led the way nationally, up at 56.9, which was its highest point since March, while the Canterbury Westland region moved up from two months of consecutive contraction to 53.3 for June.
In the North Island, the northern region fell 3.7 points to 54.9, its lowest level since January, while the central region also fell 2.3 points to 50.9 but remained in slight expansion.
Business New Zealand chief executive Phil O'Reilly said that, like its sister survey, the performance in manufacturing index, the service index reflected a developing trend of ''consistent and positive growth''.
''Comments from respondents remain far more positive than negative, and focus on stronger activity, continuing growth and a sense of confidence back in the market,'' he said.
Nationally, property and business services were highest at 59.8, followed by wholesale and retail at 54.1 and 54.6 respectively.
Health and community services were largely unchanged but still in expansion at 52.6.
