March 31, 2026

#economy: Calls for Urgent Food Policy Reform as Food Insecurity Grows

Dale Husband Posted On March 31, 2026

Dale Husband #economy: Calls for Urgent Food Policy Reform as Food Insecurity Grows

A leading public health expert is warning that food insecurity in Aotearoa is worsening, despite the country producing more than enough food to feed its population.

Professor Boyd Swinburn from Health Coalition Aotearoa says the issue is not about a lack of food, but about how the system is structured – pointing to policy failures that are leaving many families unable to access affordable, healthy options.

Food insecurity is increasingly being framed as a systemic issue, driven by factors such as low incomes, rising living costs, and the price and availability of nutritious food. Swinburn says the current system places the burden on individuals, when the real drivers sit within policy settings that shape the food environment.

There are growing calls for Government intervention to address the imbalance, including measures to make healthy food more affordable, regulate the marketing and availability of unhealthy products, and strengthen income support for low-income households.

Experts say immediate action is needed to ensure healthier food choices are not only available but accessible to all communities, particularly those already facing economic hardship.

Alongside national policy changes, there is also a push to empower communities to take greater control over their local food systems. This includes supporting initiatives such as community gardens, local food production, and Māori-led approaches that prioritise sustainability, affordability and cultural values.

Advocates argue that strengthening local food networks can improve resilience, reduce reliance on global supply chains, and ensure communities are better equipped to meet their own needs.

There are warnings that if food insecurity is not addressed in the coming years, the consequences will be far-reaching. Poor access to healthy food is linked to a range of long-term health issues, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease, placing additional pressure on the health system.

The issue also has broader social impacts, affecting educational outcomes, workforce participation and overall wellbeing.

With the gap widening between food availability and affordability, pressure is mounting on policymakers to act, as calls grow for a more equitable and sustainable food system that works for all New Zealanders.