Statistics New Zealand has revealed that during the month of February, New Zealand immigration rose to a 15-month high, suggesting that consumer spending and the demand for housing may improve and bolster the economy following the worldwide financial crisis.

The report showed that during the second month of 2009, the number of migrants relocating to New Zealand exceeded those departing by 6,160, up from 4,538 in the year through January. In February, a net 1,670 migrants arrived, the most since November 2006.

Tourist and short-term visitor arrivals rose for the third time in four months in February, which may buoy spending in an industry that makes up about 10 percent of the economy.

Short-term visitor arrivals gained 2.9 percent from January, seasonally adjusted, Statistics New-Zealand said.