New Zealand’s fragile economic recovery has been given a boost from record monthly export figures that underline strengthening trade links with China and Asia- fuelled demand for the Pacific nation’s agricultural products.

The 17 per cent rise in April’s merchandise exports to NZ$4.7bn compared with the same month last year topped market expectations and pushed the New Zealand dollar to US$0.8216, its highest level since it was floated in 1985.

After suffering one of the developed world’s longest recessions during the global crisis, New Zealand’s economy was hit hard by the devastation caused by earthquakes in Christchurch last year and again in February. The repair bill could rise to NZ$20bn, equivalent to about 8 per cent of gross domestic product, according to the government.