
Food prices rise at fastest rate in over a year
Butter is among the biggest risers in price according to latest increases. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES
Food prices have risen at their fastest pace in more than a year driven by more expensive dairy products, and hinting that inflation pressures are gathering pace.
Stats NZ said the food price index rose 3.7% in the 12 months ended April, the highest since January last year.
"Price increases were widespread, with all five food groups recording an increase," spokesperson Nicola Growden said.
Groceries were a key part of the overall rise, increasing 5.2% over the past year, because of large increases for butter, milk, cheese, and coffee.
The price of butter increased 65%, cheese was up 24%, and milk 15%.
"The average price for 500g of butter was $7.42 in April 2025. That's nearly $3 more expensive than this time last year," Growden said.
World dairy prices have been surging amid increased demand and reduced supply, thus pushing up domestic costs.
Similarly, global prices for coffee have been pushed higher because of disease and bad weather in key producing countries. A 100g pack of instant coffee had increased more than 17% in the past year.
Stats NZ said airfares, energy costs, and rents were all up last month offsetting cheaper fuel and accommodation.
ASB senior economist Mark Smith said the monthly price indicators were volatile but pointed to building pockets of inflation pressures.
"Annual CPI inflation will likely remain parked towards the upper part of the 1-3% target range for much of 2025. While this is unlikely to prevent official cash rate cuts, the RBNZ will be somewhat cautious."
The RBNZ is widely expected to cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.25% at its next monetary statement in two weeks.

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Nelson explains that today's banks are no longer just financial institutions - they've evolved into innovation hubs, offering exciting opportunities in data, AI, cybersecurity and digital services. Once considered 'tech dinosaurs', banks are now among the most forward-thinking employers, creating more dynamic, purpose-driven career paths. 'For the first time, three major banks have secured spots in the top ten—an achievement driven by both industry transformation and growing recognition of the diverse career opportunities available.' says Nelson. 'They still offer the stability and security they've long been known for - but are now pairing that with strong salaries, flexible work policies and clear career pathways for everyone - from fresh graduates to seasoned professionals. Banks are once again recognised as offering smart, solid career choices - with a lot more excitement than people might expect.' The employer attractiveness contest: what makes companies stand out in today's job market? In today's job market, roles offering balance, good pay and training are seen as 'hygiene factors' when it comes to deciding one employer's attractiveness versus another. However, this year's employer branding findings reveal a subtle shift: for the first time, a pleasant work experience has narrowly overtaken job security as a top driver of employer attractiveness—by just one point—showing both remain deeply important in today's uncertain climate. More employees are seeking an environment where respect, recognition and empathy are embedded in daily culture. Simply put, if salaries can't rise, the employee experience must. This evolving mindset signals that New Zealanders are no longer choosing between security and satisfaction—they expect both. Brooke explains, 'People don't stay for free lunches - they stay for cultures where they feel seen, heard and respected. 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The company's New Zealand business has been supporting people and organisations in realising their true potential, helping find the best permanent, temporary and contract talent across key industries. Human connection is at the heart of the business. A personal approach, supported by state-of-the-art technology, is what sets Randstad apart in talent acquisition. Visit to discover a new way to recruit.


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