Seasonally adjusted retail sales rose in May of this year, according to figures released today by Statistics New Zealand.

This rise was led by a 2.3%, $33m increase in vehicle-related sales.

Vehicle-related industries recorded both the largest increase and the largest decrease of the 24 retail industries this month.

Motor vehicle retailing rose 7.5%, or $43m, while automotive fuel retailing fell 1.9%, or $11m