Grocery Shopping in New Zealand

As with grocery shopping anywhere in the world, some stores are more expensive than others, and some foods are priced based on season. Living in New Zealnd it is no different. If you are new to the country you may notice some higher prices. Here you will find some information and tips on getting the most for your money when it comes to grocery shopping in New Zealand.

There are about six larger supermarket chains in New Zealand and three or four smaller discount grocery stores. The larger grocery stores in New Zealand, such as, Woolworths or The Countdown, tend to more expensive than the small supermarkets.

The small Pak'N Save grocery stores tend to be about 15% less than the larger supermarkets. As with any area, the farther you get from larger cities, prices start to rise. One good idea to help save on the cost of groceries in New Zealand is to drive to the larger supermarkets monthly. You will be able to buy some staples and produce locally, usually for a cheaper price. So when at the larger supermarket, stock up on non-perishable items and things that may be on sale. If you plan your shopping well, this should save you some money on your monthly grocery bill.

Grocery Shopping in New Zealand - Shopping Experience

The Woolworths chain in New Zealand is known for the best chopping experience. They have larger stores, cleaner stores, more space, friendlier environment, and good customer services.

The further you move down the proverbial grocery store food chain, the less enjoyable the grocery store shopping experience may become. Take The Coutdown for example, in the United States this would be comparable to Food Lions and BiLos. They are usually a tad smaller than the big guys, don't have as wide a variety of foods, and usually lack in the décor department.

The smaller grocery stores in New Zealand are usually much smaller than the supermarkets, bare minimum décor, and much busier. The Pak'N Save grocery stores tend to be very busy and crowded. The plus to all these smaller grocery stores in New Zealand is their price. They all tend to be substantially cheaper than the big guys.

As far as customer service goes in New Zealand, you get what you pay for. In the larger, more expensive, supermarkets you get great customer service. They will pack your bags for you and even offer assistance carrying them to your car if need be. In the smaller grocery stores you will have to pack your own bags.

Grocery Shopping in New Zealand - Prices

If you are planning on moving to New Zealand and are doing research on costs of living, there are some things you want to keep in mind. Most of the articles that provide costs of living, such as, groceries, toiletries, and clothing usually give a rounded up or higher price. As with anywhere in the world though, there are sales throughout the year. Just like any other country New Zealand has sales when products are in season and higher prices when they are not. So, if you are a thrifty shopper or are worried about a tight budget, don't be. If you really want to live on a budget in New Zealand you can. It might be a little higher than your used to, but probably not much more.

If you live further away from the cities you can take advantage of local farmers markets and private sellers. If you live inside the city, you will want to shop for produce at the "orchard shops." These shops are small provide cheaper prices due to competition with other smaller produce shops.

Grocery Shopping in New Zealand - Final Thoughts

Grocery shopping in any part of the world could almost be considered an art if you are a thrifty shopper. While some things may be more expensive in New Zealand because of its location, there are also some things that are cheaper. If you take advantage of smaller grocery stores, stock up at supermarkets, and buy local farm produce, you are sure to get the most for your money. One can still be thrifty here if you plan ahead and shop around.