Exports in the boats category for May rose to NZ$108m compared to NZ$9m a year ago
Statistics New Zealand said recreational boat sales helped boost the total value of exported products by NZ$429m to NZ$4.6bn for May. Exports in the boats, ships and floating structures category rose to NZ$108m for May, compared to NZ$9m a year ago. The government agency said the gain was mainly due to an increase in pleasure boat exports.
The trend in the value of exports has increased 30 per cent since its most recent low point in September 2009, according to a statement. The trend in import values has mainly increased (up 22 per cent) since the most recent low point, also in September 2009, but is still 8.6 per cent below its overall peak in September 2008.
In May 2011, the country's trade surplus was NZ$605 million, or 13 per cent of the value of exports.