One-third of New Zealand’s SMEs anticipate higher workloads in Q1 2026 than typical, signalling positive momentum in economic activity.
MYOB’s latest national survey of over 500 SME owners and decision-makers reveals more local businesses anticipate rising trade in the first three months of the year versus last year.
Additionally, 40% of respondents expect their usual workload for the period, while 25% anticipate less than normal.
“SMEs ended 2025 with largely steady trading conditions in the final few months of the year, though performance varied across the sector,” MYOB chief customer officer Dean Chadwick said.
“The start of 2026 appears more settled. With a third of businesses reporting more work lined up for the first quarter than usual, alongside a large proportion seeing stable pipelines, we’re seeing signs of a segment that is steadying and beginning to look ahead.”
Respondents expressed optimism about sales prospects, especially in key sectors that have faced challenges in recent years.
Manufacturing SMEs reported a 38% rise in orders or work lined up before the end of March.
Retail reported a 37% increase, while construction and trade businesses saw a 33% rise for the same period.
To meet year-end revenue goals, 33% of SMEs plan sales, discounts, or promotions, while 32% intend to replicate their 2025 efforts.
22% of respondents plan to launch sales earlier, extending the pre-Black Friday trend from last year. 16% plan deeper discounts, while 11% aim to expand their range of offers.
Chadwick noted the firm’s research also shows growing interest in the government’s Investment Boost policy.
The policy lets businesses immediately deduct 20% of new asset costs from taxable income, atop standard depreciation.
The survey indicates 44% of SMEs plan to accelerate deductible purchases—like supplies or equipment—before March 31.
“We know from our research at the end of last year that many local businesses are planning to take advantage of the Investment Boost to maximise business investment this year.
“We can also see from the latest data that businesses are making good on the growth ambitions they signalled at the end of last year – not only seizing opportunities to increase sales before the end of the financial year, but also upping their own spending on plant, supplies and equipment to boost their operations.”