The New Zealand dollar steadied around $0.61 as the US dollar strengthened amid mixed US economic data.
US reports showed a drop in weekly jobless claims but disappointments in housing starts, building permits, and unexpected spikes in import and export prices. Industrial production remained stagnant.
In New Zealand, first-quarter data indicated persistent high producer inflation, surpassing expectations for both input and output prices.
The inflationary pressure raises concerns about New Zealand's economic outlook.