North-South economic divide could last years, economists warn

Economists are sounding the alarm about a persistent economic divide between New Zealand's North and South Islands, with the South Island showing robust growth in housing, jobs, and migration while the North lags behind. This imbalance could stretch on for years, affecting everything from local business environments to broader national economic strategies. The growing disparity underscores the need for targeted policies to boost development in the North, ensuring balanced regional growth and addressing potential social and economic repercussions.