Food prices climbed 5.0% in August compared to last year, according to Stats NZ, with Foodstuffs’ own basket showing a 5.1% rise.

The grocery co-ops say a harsh winter was to blame for big jumps in some vegetables, while other staples fell.

Green cabbages were up 78% and broccoli 76%, making them some of the priciest greens in years.

By contrast, kumara dropped 15% and kiwifruit 12%, with canned tuna also cheaper.

Olive oil saw the steepest fall, down 22% as European supply rebounded.

Butter, cheese, steak and lamb remain stubbornly high, still costing 30% or more above last year.

Foodstuffs Managing Director Chris Quin said global demand and supply shortages continue to drive up dairy and meat, though recent drops in international butter prices may filter through in time.

Quin also pointed to the timing of PAK’nSAVE’s annual birthday sales as a factor in the year-on-year comparison.

He said supplier costs are still rising, up 5.5% in August, leaving little room for retailers to absorb increases.

For Coasties, the shifts are felt weekly at the checkout.

Families are juggling dearer greens like cabbage, pushed up by winter weather, alongside cheaper fruit and pantry items, while hoping global price drops in staples like butter and olive oil flow through to local shelves soon.

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