New Zealand's fruit and vegetable prices rocketed in February

In February, New Zealand saw a significant increase in the prices of fruits and vegetables, with a 23% rise marking the highest monthly increase in over 40 years. This surge is largely due to challenges faced by growers, including adverse weather conditions that particularly affected the production of export-quality kiwifruit, onions, pumpkins, and apples in the northern regions. Despite these setbacks, domestic supply and distribution networks have remained largely resilient. However, some green vegetables have been in short supply, and the ongoing inflation has led to a 12% increase in food prices compared to the previous year. This situation has been worsened by disruptions to planting and growing areas, including in Pukekohe and Horowhenua, with the extreme weather impacting the quality and quantity of key crops. Supermarket chains like Foodstuffs North Island and Countdown have been working closely with growers to manage these supply issues and have been sourcing produce from other regions and countries to maintain availability. Although the improved weather promises an abundant supply of greens and root vegetables soon, consumers should anticipate higher prices due to the increased input costs faced by growers.