Hon GRANT ROBERTSON: Statistics New Zealand yesterday reported that retail spending using debit and credit cards rose a higher than expected 7 percent in April compared with the previous month. Core retail sales saw a strong increase of 7.4 percent in April, with gains in spending, consumables, durables, hospitality, and apparel. Westpac's economists said they expected further increases in spending over the next few months given the continued easing in health restrictions, including the opening of the international border, helping to support a recovery in the hospitality sector. However, we know that New Zealanders are doing it tough as global factors push up the cost of living, and we're continuing to support low and middle income earners through reductions in their fuel bills and income increases.