Investing.com-- New Zealand consumer inflation grew less than expected in the third quarter on softer import prices, taking more pressure off the Reserve Bank to raise interest rates further this year.

The drop in headline inflation was largely driven by softer import prices and easing supply chain issues in New Zealand’s main trading partners. 

The RBNZ only expects inflation to come within its 2% annual target range by mid-2025. But the central bank has kept its rates on hold since May, citing the need for a balance between curbing inflation and avoiding more economic headwinds. 

Easing inflation gives the RBNZ more impetus to keep rates on hold, with analysts also expecting the bank to hold rates until at least next year. 

“The chance of a further rate hike from the RBNZ in November is less likely. The extent to which core inflation pressures continue to ease rapidly in the December quarter and beyond will be critical in determining the likelihood and timing of rate increases next year. The persistence in domestic price pressures means the RBNZ won't be contemplating cuts any time soon,” analysts at Westpac wrote in a note.