How much have food prices increased in New Zealand?

Labour says food prices are rising at their fastest rate in four years, with significant increases in staple items like bread and mince.

How much has white bread increased?

White bread has reportedly risen by 57.9% over the past year.

What is the current price of mince?

Mince is now approximately $23.85 per kilo, up more than 18% over the past year.

What is the Government’s response to rising costs?

The Government has maintained that economic recovery is underway, while opposition parties argue policies are worsening household costs.

Will cost of living be a key issue in Election 2026?

Food prices, fuel costs, taxation and healthcare affordability are expected to be central campaign issues in Election 2026.

Food Prices Rise Fastest in Four Years, Says Labour

ByThe Daily Blog 18 February 202620 February 2026

Food prices in New Zealand are climbing at their fastest pace in four years, according to Labour, intensifying debate over cost-of-living pressures ahead of Election 2026.

Food Inflation Hits Four-Year High

Food prices have gone up at the fastest rate in four years, laying bare Christopher Luxon’s failed promises to bring prices down.

“Christopher Luxon promised to bring down the cost of living, instead he’s throwing fuel on the fire, causing food prices to go up faster than they have in years,” Labour finance and economy spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

What’s Getting More Expensive?

“As families have already been feeling, all food subgroups have gotten more expensive over the last month, including basics that households depend on.

“White bread has gone up a staggering 57.9% in the last year. Mince is now $23.85 per kilo, up over 18 percent in the last year.

“Family favourites like chocolate are up over 20% over the last year.

Cost Of Living And Unemployment Pressures

“This Government is failing on the basics. Prices are soaring, unemployment is the highest it’s been in 10 years, and Christopher Luxon is making all the wrong choices.

Gas Tax Debate And Household Budgets

“Despite rising household costs, National is slapping New Zealanders with a new gas tax which will only raise expenses for families even more.

“It just shows how out of touch Luxon is from the real consequences of his decisions. Every time he tells us that the recovery has ‘arrived’ all he’s doing is showing everyone how completely out of touch he is.

Election 2026 And The Cost Of Living Fight

“We can’t afford another three years of this Government making more false promises and making things worse. Labour will focus on bringing costs down, starting with three free doctor’s visits, and making sure families can get ahead,” Barbara Edmonds said.

Inflation statistics may be abstract, but grocery receipts are not. As households absorb higher costs for everyday staples, the political battle over who is responsible — and who has solutions — is likely to intensify heading into Election 2026.