While much of the country has been tightening its belt, and pulling back on retail therapy, it appears Southland shoppers are bucking the trend.
Figures released by ASB show retail spending nationally, fell by 4%, except in Invercargill, where the region had 8% growth in December and 4% growth in January.
So why are shoppers in Southland spending more?
Ben Fokkens, chair of the Invercargill Neighbouring Retailers Group speaks to Lisa Owen.