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The Australian dollar got a
brief lift on Wednesday after a reading on local inflation
surprised on the high side, slugging bonds and adding to risks
interest rates may yet have to rise further. .
New Zealand home prices are predicted to rise this year and next due to tight supply, despite high interest rates and a weak economy. Analysts suggest that while home affordability has improved, the lack of supply continues to drive prices up. The government has announced measures to boost social housing, but challenges remain.