Food price inflation in New Zealand has recently decelerated to its lowest point in more than a year, according to Stats NZ. The food price index decreased by 0.4 percent last month, resulting in an annual rate of 8 percent, the lowest since July of the previous year.
This decline in food prices was notably influenced by the reduced costs of tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce, contributing to a 3.9 percent reduction in fruit and vegetable prices for the month. Grocery prices remained steady, with slight increases observed in soft drinks and takeaway and restaurant meals.
Over the course of the year, the categories that saw the most significant price increases were grocery prices and takeaway meals, followed by soft drinks, and fruit and vegetables. It’s essential to note that food prices are inherently volatile and account for approximately one-fifth of the overall inflation rate in the country.