Financial markets are anticipating interest rates will rise as soon as next month, but most economists believe it won't happen until later next year.
The Reserve Bank will issue its latest interest rate decision and monetary policy statement on Thursday.
A poll of 15 economists by Reuters shows most believe interest rates will be kept at its record low this week and will not rise until March, though some are predicting it to be as late as June.
Westpac chief economist Dominick Stephens believes the first hike will come in April because, although the economy is gathering pace, the Reserve Bank will be concerned about the high New Zealand dollar.
"Financial markets have got perhaps a little bit excited by the observation that the New Zealand economy is in a very strong position, " Mr Stephens says.
"In my view the strong economy does require interest rate hikes but (the) strong exchange rate will encourage the Reserve Bank to hold off and wait before starting the hikes."
