New figures from Stats NZ show food prices across New Zealand have continued to increase, placing further pressure on household budgets already strained by the higher cost of living.
In the 12 months to the end of last year, food prices rose by around 4 percent – a significant uplift that reflects higher costs for groceries, meat, poultry and other everyday essentials.
While annual food price inflation has eased slightly from some peak levels seen earlier in 2025, the ongoing increases mean families are paying more for the basics. Grocery food prices have led much of the rise, and meat, poultry and fish have been particularly costly for many households.
For many whānau – especially those on lower incomes, beneficiaries, or with larger households – the effects are deep and personal. When food prices climb faster than incomes, families often have to make tough choices about what they put on the table. Parents tell us they are buying cheaper substitutes, cutting back on fresh fruit and vegetables, or skipping meals to stretch limited budgets.
Health experts warn that sustained food price rises can have serious implications for nutrition and wellbeing, particularly for tamariki, kaumātua and people with chronic health conditions who rely on healthy, balanced diets.
For Māori whānau – who already face higher rates of socioeconomic hardship – these cost pressures can deepen inequities in health and education as money that might otherwise go on kai, kura, or whānau activities is instead spent just on surviving day to day.
Economists say food price increases are part of broader inflation trends affecting households, including rising costs in rent, transport and utilities, but food remains one of the most immediate and unavoidable expenses for families.
Community groups and social services are reporting higher demand for foodbanks and community food initiatives as more people struggle to meet the cost of feeding whānau. Charities say that while short-term supports help in the moment, long-term solutions are needed – including better wages, affordable housing, and policies that address the root causes of rising living costs.
As the conversation continues across Aotearoa about inflation and cost of living pressures, many whānau are calling on policymakers to recognise that food security is at the heart of wellbeing, and that no one should have to choose between essentials like kai and keeping a roof over their head.
