A warning we've been burnt by high hopes for economic recovery. 

Stats NZ data out today puts unemployment at 5.4 percent in the December quarter. 

The numbers were less severe than forecasts from Treasury, but still reflect a 10 year unemployment high. 

Infometrics Principal Economist Brad Olsen says the talk about getting momentum back last year fell short.

"For businesses, they need to see stronger business sales coming through their front door before they commit to hiring more workers." 

LISTEN ABOVE

A warning we've been burnt by high hopes for economic recovery.&nbsp;
Stats NZ data out today puts unemployment at 5.4 percent in the December quarter.&nbsp;
The numbers were less severe than forecasts from Treasury, but still reflect a 10 year unemployment high.&nbsp;
Infometrics Principal Economist&nbsp;Brad Olsen says the talk about getting momentum back last year fell short.
"For businesses, they need to see stronger business sales coming through their front door before they commit to hiring more workers."&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

Brad Olsen: Infometrics Principal Economist on what the new unemployment figures mean for economic recovery

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/d734ec01-e157-4111-9399-b3e7004e5faa/transcript