The global IT outage has caused extensive disruptions for retailers across New Zealand.

Originating from a cybersecurity issue involving CrowdStrike, the outage began affecting Microsoft systems on Friday afternoon.

This outage is currently crippling banks, radio stations, airports, and retailers nationwide.

Retail NZ Chief Executive Carolyn Young said “we are hearing a number of technical payment issues with supermarkets who are still trading this evening.

“It appears that transactions via Eftpos are completing, however contactless and credit transactions are intermittent.

“This is a live issue that is developing as we speak where we only have visibility of what is happening in New Zealand.

“Our advice to retailers is to keep up to date with news on this global issue, advise customers of the current challenges being experienced at point of sale and not all transactions will process smoothly.

“Be vigilant on offering credit and ensure that online transactions have cleared prior to dispatch of goods. Get in touch with your terminal provider to obtain further information and advice regarding payments.

“Our hope is that fast progress is made overnight to enable businesses to operate smoothly over the weekend.”