Businesses Holding Back On Hiring As Labour Market WeakensThe EMA (Employers and Manufacturers Association) says today's increase in unemployment reflects the cautious approach many businesses have adopted as they navigate a challenging and uncertain economic environment. Stats NZ today reported unemployment rose to 5.6% in the June 2026 quarter, up from 5.3% in the March quarter. EMA Head of Advocacy Alan McDonald says the result highlights the pressure many businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, have faced over recent months. The volatility we saw during the quarter affected confidence, investment decisions and hiring intentions." If uncertainty eases and confidence continues to improve, we would expect hiring intentions to strengthen over the coming months."