Good news for the retail sector, as sales increase across the country

Stats NZ data shows the total volume of sales increased 1.9 percent in the September quarter - equalling more than 470-million dollars.

The growth was driven by motor vehicles and electronic goods, which saw the the biggest boost this quarter.

Retail NZ CEO Carolyn Young says the start of a new Government year may play a role in the rising numbers.

She says leases may expire and people may need new vehicles, which happens in the third quarter.