For Hibiscus Coast households keeping a close eye on the grocery bill, new data shows many Kiwis see food waste as wasted money.

2026 Cooking & Eating Global Report shows 64% of cost-conscious Kiwis think throwing away food wastes money.

For the first time since opening in New Zealand, IKEA has included 1,001 interviews across Aotearoa in its global study, alongside 30 other countries.

Based on more than 30,000 people surveyed in 31 countries, the report found 69% of New Zealanders consciously try to reduce food waste, compared with 63% globally.

It also found 47% use food storage to keep food fresh for longer, versus 26% globally, and 36% cook with home-grown food, compared with 21% worldwide.

New Zealanders also reported stronger sustainable food behaviours than the global average.

The report found 48% use energy-efficient appliances, 47% buy seasonal produce, 30% buy fewer packaged products, 40% cook or prepare food for several meals at a time, and 62% cook from scratch.

In addition, 63% prioritise reusable shopping bags, 44% plan meals in advance, and almost one in two do one big weekly shop rather than multiple grocery visits.

“These insights show just how deeply sustainability is woven into everyday life in Aotearoa. The food sourcing, preparing, cooking and eating behaviours of New Zealanders reflect a strong national identity shaped by connection to the land, a desire to minimise waste, save money, and a practical, thoughtful approach to everyday living, values that align closely with our vision at IKEA.” said Edward Hincks, Home Furnishing and Retail Design Manager, IKEA New Zealand.

The report states that IKEA’s food storage solutions are designed to support behaviours such as reducing food waste, planning meals, and keeping food fresher for longer.

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