Our largest bank's Chief Economist believes the anticipated unemployment figures show that the Reserve Bank's approach to tackling inflation is working. 

Stats NZ will release the latest data just before 11am. 

Most economists forecast an unemployment rate of 3.9%, up from 3.6% three months ago. 

ANZ's Sharon Zollner told Mike Hosking that spare capacity is needed in the labour market to avoid the risk of a wage price spiral, and bring down inflation. 

She says it's not a great recipe, but if inflation and other pressures aren't tackled now there'll be a bigger bust down the track. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

• Economist predicts rise in unemployment figures