Wellington, April 30 NZPA - Australian retailer Woolworths Ltd said its New Zealand supermarkets achieved sales of $NZ1.3 billion in the 13 weeks to April 4.

This is a 4.1 percent rise on the same period last year and a 4.4 percent rise if adjusted for Easter. Two new supermarkets were opened in the quarter, taking the total in New Zealand to 152.

"This is a strong result despite the challenging economic conditions and food price deflation," the company said.

Woolworths owns Countdown, Woolworths and Foodtown supermarkets in New Zealand and has about 45 percent of the New Zealand grocery market. Its competitor is Foodstuffs, which owns Pak'n'Save, New World and Four Square supermarkets.

Woolworths said its New Zealand team had improved the offering to customers through new formats, improved ranging, private label growth and better stock positions.

The company also has a consumer electronic business, including the Dick Smith chain.

It said its consumer electronics business in New Zealand was challenged by the weak economic environment. Its sales fell 12.9 percent, or 12 percent if adjusted for the different fall of Easter. Comparable store sales fell 17.6 percent, or 17.5 percent when adjusted for Easter.