Centrix is encouraging New Zealanders who can afford to, to get behind Kiwi businesses

The agency's latest Credit Indicator has revealed economic recovery promise, with the number of Kiwis behind on payments falling by 11-thousand in February.

Mortgage arrears fell by 400.

However, Centrix Managing Director Keith McLaughlin says with consumers controlling spend and covid loans due, small to medium businesses will face increasing pressure.

He says this needs to be managed as carefully as possible, adding people buying locally would help.