NZ food prices rise YoY in May ’25

Food prices in New Zealand rose 4.4 per cent in the 12 months to May 2025, accelerating from a 3.7 per cent increase in April, driven mainly by higher grocery and meat prices, Stats NZ said on Tuesday.

The grocery food group saw a 5.2 per cent annual rise, while meat, poultry, and fish prices climbed 5.4 per cent. All five major food groups recorded annual increases, said Nicola Growden, prices and deflators spokesperson at Stats NZ.

On a monthly basis, food prices rose 0.5 per cent in May, after a 0.8 per cent increase in April, according to the figures.

Fruit and vegetables led the monthly rise with a 3.6 per cent increase, followed by meat, poultry, and fish at 1.7 per cent. Tomatoes, avocados, and cucumbers were the key drivers, along with chicken nuggets and lamb leg.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

Subediting: M. S. Salama