Kantar Poll shows energy prices, global instability now greatest worries for New Zealanders

New Kantar poll shows New Zealand unsettled by global instability and rising living costs. Energy prices and global conflicts now dominate the public’s anxiety: 74% of New Zealanders are highly concerned about energy prices (8–10 on a 0–10 scale), including 30% who say they are extremely concerned. Concern about global conflicts is nearly as intense, with 70% rating concern at 8–10 and 31% saying extremely concerned.

Inflation remains another pressure point, with 62% highly concerned. Concern about the economy is similarly elevated (63% at 8–10).

Half of the country (51%) currently describes New Zealand’s economic outlook as stormy or rainy—more than two times the share who feel that way about their own household finances (22%). In fact, 44% report at least “glimpses of sunshine” for their household, compared with just 14% who see any “sunshine” for the national outlook.

Perceived exposure to global shocks is striking: 88% believe New Zealand is vulnerable to disruptions in fuel or essential goods supply due to global instability, including 50% who say the country is extremely vulnerable.

Women report higher intensity across several concerns, particularly global conflicts and inflation, indicating disproportionate pressure on household budgeting and wellbeing. Younger New Zealanders (18–39) are more likely than older cohorts to describe their household situation as stormy/rainy, while those aged 60+ are the most likely to see glimpses of sunshine.