The latest Institute of Economic Research quarterly survey shows a net 34 percent of firms expect a deterioration in general economic conditions.

Seasonally adjusted national median house prices shot up 22 percent last year, but in December the median dropped back 1.6 percent compared to the month before.

Insurance claims over damaging South Island gales jumped $20m, while overall last year extreme weather events cost a record $321m in claims.

Northlanders are calling for specific regional financial support to keep businesses open and people employed after a quiet peak summer season.

Potential home buyers are being warned they could face their pre-approvals being declined or withdrawn for months to come.

While most New Year resolutions involved health and fitness goals, Chartered Accountants ANZ recommends cutting the credit card.

Every suburb in the country recorded an increase in median house price values last year, including one where house prices jumped by more than $650,000.

More stories have emerged detailing the effects of strict new loan changes, including one woman who was probed about her social life, her job and her spending down to the dollar.