Shopping for groceries in New Zealand can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the country. Fortunately, there are plenty of fantastic supermarkets to choose from – each boasting a wide array of food options at reasonable prices and providing excellent customer service throughout your visit. Now that’s what we call a perfect shopping experience.
Choosing a grocery shop in New Zealand can be perplexing, as there are local stores and well-known supermarkets. Your decision should factor in your specific needs, including:
- Great discounts;
- Personal service;
- A business that sells a range of specialised items due to dietary restrictions;
- In a little village, restocking with a few items.
Purchasing Groceries in NZ
While visiting New Zealand, we recommend purchasing food and snacks from supermarkets. This is because the costs are substantially lower than those found in cafés, bakeries, and restaurants. Given that you are not staying in a campervan or trailer, most holiday parks feature common kitchens and BBQs, but most inexpensive motels and hotels have kitchenettes.
Individuals differ; some dislike cooking more than others. Instead of going to cafés, get pre-made meals, snacks, pre-cooked chicken, tea, and coffee from a store.
This article has covered the major New Zealand supermarkets and other outlets where you can pick up food while travelling. It has also offered some insights to assist you in deciding which stores are ideal for you.
Lunch at a cafe is usually delightful; such culinary encounters are often among our fondest trip recollections. Dining at small restaurants is also an excellent way to support small shops and culinary establishments. Striking a happy medium between dining at home and going out to grab a bite is a fantastic way to save money while still having fun away from the kitchen.
It is advisable to remain in and cook if you are visiting a place without any restaurants you are eager to dine at or would rather have a quiet evening at home. Another option is to plan a fantastic New Zealand picnic outside.
The Largest Supermarket stores in New Zealand
New Zealand has several respected supermarket chains. You can choose your favourite store in larger cities and towns, while you have one option in smaller towns. The main supermarkets in New Zealand include:
1. Pak’n’Save
Pak’n’Save is a budget supermarket considered the best in New Zealand and is owned by Foodstuffs. You can find 56 Pak’n’Save stores all around the country, with 17 of them located in the biggest city in New Zealand, Auckland.
Stepping into any of their stores is like entering a warehouse, and you will soon find unbeatable prices. From bargain boxes to large quantities that offer incredible savings and retail items for as little as $1, it’s the perfect place to get great deals!
You will probably find what you’re searching for here because these retailers offer almost all of the familiar household brands. Customers of Pak’n’Save load their bags at the register to maintain simplicity. Although Pak’n’Save is less upscale than other supermarkets, families frequent there because of its great bargains and superior cuisine.
2. Countdown
Another budget-friendly supermarket in New Zealand is The Countdown.
Countdown’s interior is better structured, styled, and appealing than Pak’n’Save’s. Also, the personnel is friendlier and more informed, and they can direct us to the goods we’re searching for.
Like any other chain store, Countdown’s largest supermarkets are often located in major cities, making them a convenient spot to stock up on groceries and other necessities before travelling to more rural communities.
With a wide selection of food goods, many Countdown shops also contain a pharmacy where you can buy prescription medications and other necessities for your home and vacation requirements.
Given that Countdown is a subsidiary of the global conglomerate Woolworths group, you may be acquainted with it if you are an Australian. You’ll feel perfectly at home throughout your visit because the store design and branding are comparable.
3. New World
The cheery, upbeat ambience of New World shops makes for a comfortable, luxurious shopping experience. They are renowned for providing a large variety of high-quality food, particularly fresh products, including fruits, vegetables, and locally produced meats, although only sometimes having the lowest pricing.
You may also utilise New World’s Clubcard loyalty programme if you frequently shop there. You may get a discount at Caltex gas stations and save money when shopping in-store using this card.
Smaller supermarkets can be your best bet if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to eating out. They may sometimes offer different discounts than bigger brands, but they are typically more conveniently located and provide an excellent opportunity to support local businesses.
4. Fresh Choice
Fresh Choice is what you’re looking for if you’re in New Zealand and need everyday necessities! With 33 stores throughout the country, this supermarket chain is small but mighty.
At Fresh Choice, you can find all sorts of things you need to stock up on, like fresh fruits and veggies, meats, and all the basics you need for your pantry. And if you’re feeling fancy, some of the bigger Fresh Choice stores also offer gourmet, vegan, and other specialised food options.
Depending on where you are, Fresh Choice might be just as good as Four Square for finding what you need. And in some areas, these supermarkets are just as big as the major players in the industry!
5. Four Square
Four Square supermarkets are smaller than the big supermarkets, but they’re more significant than the local convenience store, also known as a dairy in New Zealand.
These stores are usually found in smaller towns, making them an excellent option for shopping in remote areas. While shopping at Four Square may cost a little more than the three larger New Zealand supermarkets, and their selection could be more varied, you can still find your bare shopping essentials there.
Four Square might be ideal for you if you have dietary needs! Their services are always friendly and personal. So if you require a quick restock of essentials – they should be your go-to! But visiting one of the larger supermarkets would provide more options when you do a big grocery shop.
6. SuperValue
If you live in a smaller town without one of those massive superstores, SuperValue is a great place to get your necessities. They’ve got a friendly team and offer various local products at any of their 39 stores across New Zealand.
7. Farro
If you’re a food lover looking for some of the best New Zealand produce, Farro is worth checking out, even though they are pricier. Their products are consistently high-quality, so you know you’re getting the good stuff.
What’s excellent about Farro is that they offer various options for people with different dietary needs, including organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan choices. So if you’re travelling to New Zealand and have allergies or other nutritional requirements, Farroely is worth keeping in mind.
However, keep in mind that Farro only has six stores, all located in Auckland. So stock up on your favourite goodies before exploring other parts of Aotearoa.
Here are some other stores to check for groceries
Specific items or situations, most situations, require you to use these stores, even if they can’t fulfil all your grocery needs.
1. Dairies
In New Zealand, we have these little shops called dairies that are open during the day and sell more than just dairy products. They’re perfect for grabbing snacks or topping up your groceries during the week.
The selection can vary depending on the size and location, but friendly local owners usually run them. On the other end of the spectrum, we have Costco. This American wholesaler opened its first store in Auckland in 2022 and caused quite a commotion!
They sell things in bulk, so it’s great for stocking up on items at discounted prices, but you could be better if you’re just looking for a few things or travelling light. The Warehouse is a good option after a mix of household items and food.
They’re known for affordable clothing, electronics, and appliances, but they also carry a selection of food, drinks, and cleaning products. It’s an excellent spot to grab breakfast cereal or snacks for a road trip.
2. Fruit and Veggie Stores
To cook authentic Asian cuisine, you can usually find more ingredients at specialised Asian supermarkets. These stores typically offer more affordable prices than general supermarkets.
When you’re on a road trip and need a break, gas stations can be a convenient place to grab a quick snack or drink. Many gas stations also have coffee counters, bakeries, and hot food kiosks that serve tasty pies and sausage rolls.
They can make a great stop when looking for a quick lunch during a long drive. However, remember that food and drinks purchased at a gas station are generally more expensive than those bought at a supermarket. It’s best to use them as a backup option if you’re in a pinch and need access to other options.
Most food and drinks purchased directly from a petrol station have higher prices than those from a supermarket, so we advise turning to them merely as a last-minute resort.
A wide range of fruit and vegetables in an Auckland store.
a) Asian Supermarkets
In most cities, you may find true, speciality Asian stores.
If you want to prepare Asian cuisine, you will typically find more affordable and diverse ingredients in these shops than at other supermarkets.
b) Gas Stations
Gas stations are an excellent spot to stop for food and a refreshing drink before continuing your journey if you’re on the road.
Most large gas stations also contain coffee shops, bakeries, and hot food kiosks where pies and sausage rolls are sold. When you have a long day of travel, they might make an excellent lunch break.
It is advised to use them as a backup when you run out because food and beverages purchased at a gas station are often more expensive than those purchased from a supermarket.
Tips for Shopping at New Zealand supermarkets
1. Sign Up for Supermarket Loyalty Schemes
Mainly imported groceries make food expensive in New Zealand, while locally produced products are world-class and primarily exported. As a result, people in New Zealand have to pay more for the same products.
If you’re travelling to New Zealand, budget extra for food costs. Also, get free loyalty cards to save money on food and gas. We recommend signing up for OneCard (Countdown, BP, G.A.S) and New World Clubcard (New World, Z, Caltex).
In New Zealand, we recommend you sign up for the following loyalty cards:
- OneCard (Countdown, BP, G.A.S)
- New World Clubcard (New World, Z, Caltex).
You can either pick up a card in-store for free or download the app beforehand to get a card.
2. Big Supermarkets are the Cheapest
Always make it a point to stock up on food at supermarkets where food variety is more exhaustive and supplies are cheaper.
Snacks and drinks will be cheaper at supermarkets than at cafes, dairies, and bakeries.
So if you are going off on a road trip, consider bulk purchasing your favourite snacks, fruit, baked treats, and drinks rather than buying them at each small town you pass through.
Consider purchasing pre-made meals and heat-and-eat options instead of dining out at restaurants. They can be a cost-effective alternative.
You can find a wide selection of fresh juices and milk in any New Zealand supermarket. Supermarkets often offer a wide range of drinks, including liquids, dairy, and soft drinks.
3. Shopping in Big Cities Rather than Smaller Towns
Small towns are usually less likely to be equipped with primary supermarket chains, so it is harder to find discounts you would generally get in the big supermarkets.
If you’re shopping for everyday household items such as salt, pepper, cooking oil, washing powder, and tomato sauce, buy them from larger supermarkets to save money. You can also pick up any other supplies you need while you’re there.
4. Take Your Bags
Always carry reusable bags like tote bags since plastic bags are no longer supplied in New Zealand stores. Alternatively, buy affordable, biodegradable, reusable bags at supermarkets. At Pak’n’Save, they also provide cardboard boxes that you can use to carry grocery and shopping items instead of bags.
5. Click and Collect
Use click-and-collect in the grocery store for a time-saving strategy. Simply go online, select what you want to buy, and submit your order with the information for your preferred supermarket and pickup time. Retailers offer this service at no extra cost if you meet the minimum order requirement.
What a combination of value and ease!
6. Online Grocery Delivery
If you don’t have a car or prefer to use your free time for other activities, consider online shopping with home delivery. Online shopping with home delivery is often more cost-effective than public transportation to and from the supermarket, although there is usually a delivery fee.
Purchase anything you need, but take advantage of the opportunity to stock up on your favourite staples, like pasta and canned goods, which can be pricier at local convenience stores. Also, check the store’s opening and closing hours to ensure you place your order in time for delivery.
Know When the Stores Open and Close.
It is an unspoken rule that supermarkets are open seven days a week. The most common days that supermarkets are closed are:
- Christmas Day, 25th December
- Good Friday
- Easter Sunday
- ANZAC Day, until 1.00 pm on 25 April.
The store closures do not mainly affect small grocery shops or petrol stations. In large cities, some supermarkets are open 24/7, that is, a whole day, but that is different since some close at night.
Usually, dairies (small local shops) close for the day around sunset, but petrol (gas) stations are often open 24/7 and can come in handy if you need to buy some supplies at the last minute. Use Google and google maps to check for specific hours for your local stores.
You can find a diverse selection of beers, ciders, and wines at most supermarkets throughout New Zealand so that you can pick up your favourite drink alongside your groceries. Be sure to carry any form of identification when shopping for alcohol.
Though you only need to be 18 to buy booze in New Zealand, if you look younger than 25 and can’t produce ID, you’ll be denied from making any purchase.
International motorist’s licenses aren’t accepted, so we suggest taking your passport with you if you’re travelling to New Zealand from abroad.
If one person under 25 appears under 25, the store may ask everyone for identification as part of the “party rule.” Your whole group will be barred from purchasing if you can’t give identification. This doesn’t apply to your children.
Though stores may be open for extended hours, the trade of alcohol is confined to a specific timeframe.
The trade and force of the Alcohol Act 2012 prevent alcohol from being sold at out-license stores( like supermarkets and bottle stores) before 7 am or after 11 pm. It allows for these deals to be made every day of the week.
Original alcohol restrictions can further circumscribe these hours, so depending on the part of the country you’re in, these hours might be slightly reduced. In other corridors of the government, alcohol isn’t allowed to be sold at supermarkets.
Although New Zealand is a relatively expensive country to travel in, shopping at supermarkets in advance can be a great way to save money and try local flavours.