Latest news with #NZFN
Scoop
10-08-2025
- General
- Scoop
Kiwis Facing Hardship Forced To Choose Between Feeding Themselves Or Their Pets, Says Petstock Foundation
The Petstock Foundation has partnered with the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) to help provide relief to struggling families amid the cost-of-living crisis. Throughout August, the Petstock Foundation's commitment is to raise $100,000 across Australia and New Zealand which will supply pet food to families in need. Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households own a pet, with the number significantly higher for households with children at up to 71%. A recent study also found that people experiencing poverty go without food to provide pets in their care – something that NZFN's recipient food hubs also see on the front lines of food insecurity. Naomi Mancktelow, Petstock Foundation said, 'The Big Hearts Project aims to empower individuals and families struggling to feed their pets. We know that people who experience hardship also tend to experience social isolation. We also know that having a pet companion can alleviate this. 'The Foundation is committed to leading change, strengthening the bond between pets and people, and creating lasting impact in local communities,' says Naomi. According to NZFN, from July to December 2024, their partner food hubs reported that the top reasons Kiwis sought support were: 93% stated rising cost of living 59% stated unemployment 67% stated low household income 51% stated unexpected bills or expenses CEO of the NZ Food Network, Gavin Findlay said, 'We're extremely grateful for the Petstock Foundation's support. As more families struggle to put food on the table, we welcome this opportunity to alleviate this burden on both the pets and their owners. We know that families on stretched budgets often face the hard choice of feeding themselves or feeding their pets. With the Petstock Foundation's support we can help take away that impossible decision, so no family member or pet goes hungry.' Naomi said, 'This August, you can donate $2 to the Petstock Foundation to provide a meal to a pet in need. Either in store or online, this small donation will make a big difference. You will not just fill a bowl; you are supporting the emotional wellbeing for families under pressure, keeping pets in loving homes where they belong and empowering a better future for pets and people. Let's stand together for the pets that inspire us, and for the whānau who love them.' How Kiwis can support: Donate just $2 in-store or online: Pet lovers can donate at the Petstock counter in-store or online 100% of funds donated to the Foundation supports its charitable partners and projects like Big Hearts with all operating costs covered by the business. ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP The Petstock Foundation and New Zealand Food Network have partnered together to distribute essential pet food to food insecure households across New Zealand. This partnership ensures that families struggling to put food on the table won't also have to surrender or neglect their pets due to financial constraints. Through the support of generous Petstock customers, this campaign aims to deliver real, practical help to Kiwi households doing it tough, and ensuring no bowl or belly goes empty.
Scoop
10-08-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Kiwis Facing Hardship Forced To Choose Between Feeding Themselves Or Their Pets, Says Petstock Foundation
Press Release – Petstock Foundation Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households own a pet, with the number significantly higher for households with children at up to 71%. The Petstock Foundation has partnered with the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) to help provide relief to struggling families amid the cost-of-living crisis. Throughout August, the Petstock Foundation's commitment is to raise $100,000 across Australia and New Zealand which will supply pet food to families in need. Nearly two-thirds of New Zealand households own a pet, with the number significantly higher for households with children at up to 71%. A recent study also found that people experiencing poverty go without food to provide pets in their care – something that NZFN's recipient food hubs also see on the front lines of food insecurity. Naomi Mancktelow, Petstock Foundation said, 'The Big Hearts Project aims to empower individuals and families struggling to feed their pets. We know that people who experience hardship also tend to experience social isolation. We also know that having a pet companion can alleviate this. 'The Foundation is committed to leading change, strengthening the bond between pets and people, and creating lasting impact in local communities,' says Naomi. According to NZFN, from July to December 2024, their partner food hubs reported that the top reasons Kiwis sought support were: 93% stated rising cost of living 59% stated unemployment 67% stated low household income 51% stated unexpected bills or expenses CEO of the NZ Food Network, Gavin Findlay said, 'We're extremely grateful for the Petstock Foundation's support. As more families struggle to put food on the table, we welcome this opportunity to alleviate this burden on both the pets and their owners. We know that families on stretched budgets often face the hard choice of feeding themselves or feeding their pets. With the Petstock Foundation's support we can help take away that impossible decision, so no family member or pet goes hungry.' Naomi said, 'This August, you can donate $2 to the Petstock Foundation to provide a meal to a pet in need. Either in store or online, this small donation will make a big difference. You will not just fill a bowl; you are supporting the emotional wellbeing for families under pressure, keeping pets in loving homes where they belong and empowering a better future for pets and people. Let's stand together for the pets that inspire us, and for the whānau who love them.' How Kiwis can support: Donate just $2 in-store or online: Pet lovers can donate at the Petstock counter in-store or online 100% of funds donated to the Foundation supports its charitable partners and projects like Big Hearts with all operating costs covered by the business. ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP The Petstock Foundation and New Zealand Food Network have partnered together to distribute essential pet food to food insecure households across New Zealand. This partnership ensures that families struggling to put food on the table won't also have to surrender or neglect their pets due to financial constraints. Through the support of generous Petstock customers, this campaign aims to deliver real, practical help to Kiwi households doing it tough, and ensuring no bowl or belly goes empty.
Scoop
25-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
New Zealand Food Network Appoints Two New Food Sustainability Champions To Board
Press Release – New Zealand Food Network New Zealand Food Network (NZFN), the country's national food rescue and largest food support charity, has appointed two new members to its Board of Directors to guide the organisation through its next chapter of impact and growth. The first is Ian Proudfoot, currently Global Head of Agribusiness at KPMG. Proudfoot brings over three decades of experience in auditing, governance, and strategic leadership in the agri-food sector, with deep networks across both New Zealand and international food systems. Proudfoot is the lead author of the award-winning KPMG Agribusiness Agenda and played a key role in establishing the Mana Kai Initiative, which aims to transform New Zealand's food system to be more inclusive and resilient. He is widely regarded as a thought leader in sustainable food strategy, and his long-standing commitment to food system equity will be invaluable to NZFN's mission. Meanwhile, Wade Gillooly joins the Board as a director at Marmont Investments, with over 25 years of commercial and executive experience across the FMCG and food manufacturing sectors in New Zealand, Australia, and Asia. A former CEO of ABE'S Real Bagels and Pitango, Gillooly has a proven track record in leading business growth, building high-performing teams, and delivering results in complex, multisite operations. Wade is also deeply involved in the startup ecosystem, mentoring founders and helping build innovative food brands including Ārepa among others. His strategic mindset, governance acumen, and pragmatic leadership style will be a tremendous asset to NZFN. NZFN Board Chair, Suneil Connor says he welcomes the new appointments. 'During our thorough recruitment process, it became outstandingly clear that Ian and Wade had the deep industry experience and capability we were seeking, alongside a core alignment with NZFN's mission. We're so excited to officially welcome them as directors of NZFN.' NZFN Chief Executive Officer, Gavin Findlay adds, 'Their strategic insight and global perspective will be invaluable as we navigate one of the most challenging times for food security in Aotearoa. Both Ian and Wade bring a wealth of skills and experience that will strengthen our ability to respond to the growing demand for food support, and help shape a more sustainable future for NZFN and the communities we serve.' About New Zealand Food Network New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) is Aotearoa's national food rescue and largest food support charity. With distribution centres in Auckland and Christchurch, it accepts bulk surplus and donated food from food producers, growers and manufacturers and redistributes to more than 60 food hubs (regional food rescues, iwi, food banks and other charities) so that they may feed the communities they serve. Via these food hubs, NZFN ultimately serves a network of more than 2,000 frontline organisations across the country. NZFN's services reduce GHG emissions from landfill and ensure a positive social impact by getting food to where it's needed most. NZFN's operations are primarily funded by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to help address the issue of food insecurity nationwide. In addition to distributing donated food, NZFN purchases low-cost pantry staples and other household essentials with funds raised to help keep its Food Hubs well stocked. It also serves as procurement partner for registered Food Hubs to purchase food and can be activated in the event of an emergency to procure goods for MSD and government providers.
Scoop
25-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
New Zealand Food Network Appoints Two New Food Sustainability Champions To Board
New Zealand Food Network (NZFN), the country's national food rescue and largest food support charity, has appointed two new members to its Board of Directors to guide the organisation through its next chapter of impact and growth. The first is Ian Proudfoot, currently Global Head of Agribusiness at KPMG. Proudfoot brings over three decades of experience in auditing, governance, and strategic leadership in the agri-food sector, with deep networks across both New Zealand and international food systems. Proudfoot is the lead author of the award-winning KPMG Agribusiness Agenda and played a key role in establishing the Mana Kai Initiative, which aims to transform New Zealand's food system to be more inclusive and resilient. He is widely regarded as a thought leader in sustainable food strategy, and his long-standing commitment to food system equity will be invaluable to NZFN's mission. Meanwhile, Wade Gillooly joins the Board as a director at Marmont Investments, with over 25 years of commercial and executive experience across the FMCG and food manufacturing sectors in New Zealand, Australia, and Asia. A former CEO of ABE'S Real Bagels and Pitango, Gillooly has a proven track record in leading business growth, building high-performing teams, and delivering results in complex, multisite operations. Wade is also deeply involved in the startup ecosystem, mentoring founders and helping build innovative food brands including Ārepa among others. His strategic mindset, governance acumen, and pragmatic leadership style will be a tremendous asset to NZFN. NZFN Board Chair, Suneil Connor says he welcomes the new appointments. 'During our thorough recruitment process, it became outstandingly clear that Ian and Wade had the deep industry experience and capability we were seeking, alongside a core alignment with NZFN's mission. We're so excited to officially welcome them as directors of NZFN.' NZFN Chief Executive Officer, Gavin Findlay adds, 'Their strategic insight and global perspective will be invaluable as we navigate one of the most challenging times for food security in Aotearoa. Both Ian and Wade bring a wealth of skills and experience that will strengthen our ability to respond to the growing demand for food support, and help shape a more sustainable future for NZFN and the communities we serve.' About New Zealand Food Network New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) is Aotearoa's national food rescue and largest food support charity. With distribution centres in Auckland and Christchurch, it accepts bulk surplus and donated food from food producers, growers and manufacturers and redistributes to more than 60 food hubs (regional food rescues, iwi, food banks and other charities) so that they may feed the communities they serve. Via these food hubs, NZFN ultimately serves a network of more than 2,000 frontline organisations across the country. NZFN's services reduce GHG emissions from landfill and ensure a positive social impact by getting food to where it's needed most. NZFN's operations are primarily funded by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to help address the issue of food insecurity nationwide. In addition to distributing donated food, NZFN purchases low-cost pantry staples and other household essentials with funds raised to help keep its Food Hubs well stocked. It also serves as procurement partner for registered Food Hubs to purchase food and can be activated in the event of an emergency to procure goods for MSD and government providers.
Scoop
27-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
New Zealand Food Network Teams Up With Kiwifruit Industry To Rescue Kiwifruit To Tackle Food Insecurity
Press Release – New Zealand Food Network NZFN and its packhouse partners rescued and redistributed 160 tonnes of kiwifruit in 2024, and there continues to be growing demand for support to get healthy food into vulnerable New Zealand communities. New Zealand Food Network (NZFN), the country's largest food support charity and national food rescue, is working with the kiwifruit industry this season to help feed communities in need. NZFN and its packhouse partners rescued and redistributed 160 tonnes of kiwifruit in 2024, and there continues to be growing demand for support to get healthy food into vulnerable New Zealand communities. With the support of Zespri and in partnership with a nationwide network of packhouses, NZFN is leading the charge to increase access to nutritious kai and reduce food waste in the agriculture sector. NZFN Chief Executive, Gavin Findlay, says, 'Fresh produce must pass through many hoops before it ends up on the supermarket shelves, such as needing to last long export journeys, or meeting quality standards – meaning some of the annual harvest doesn't make the cut but is still good to eat. With the help of our network of incredible organisations, we're making sure that it's going towards nourishing Kiwis who need it most.' Kiwifruit is among the most nutrient-dense fruits available, with a single gold kiwifruit providing an entire day's worth of vitamin C. Since the rescue effort began in April, NZFN has already distributed kiwifruit to more than 80 organisations across the country. The popular red kiwifruit started arriving at NZFN at the beginning of March from Seeka to be redistributed to its 65 nationwide Food Hubs which support local organisations on the front lines. Around 150 bins of red kiwifruit were processed, and sent to Kiwis in need. Gold kiwifruit processing and distribution is now underway. Zespri, the world's largest marketer of kiwifruit and long-time partner of NZFN is supporting the rescue efforts. Zespri Head of Global Public Affairs Michael Fox says, 'Our focus is always on getting as much of our growers' fruit to market as possible but we're proud to work with NZFN to ensure that fresh and healthy kiwifruit which doesn't quite meet our export standards but is still delicious and safe to eat, reaches those in need and makes a positive impact on our communities.' This initiative comes as NZFN's most recent Food Security Snapshot revealed that over half a million people are now being supported by NZFN's Food Hubs every month, with about a third of monthly recipients never seeking food support before. Yet alongside this increase in demand, the volumes of surplus donations have remained flat, at best, forcing many Food Hubs to reduce the size of food parcels or even turn away new recipients. 'Food insecurity remains a critical issue for many New Zealanders,' says Findlay. 'With many of our Food Hubs struggling with stock levels, collaboration between the private and public sector is important to plug those gaps in supply and ensure that good, nutritious produce is going to communities in need rather than ending up in the bin.' If the New Zealand Food Network could be a solution for your business, please get in contact via About New Zealand Food Network New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) is Aotearoa's largest national food rescue charity and for-purpose food distributor. With distribution centres in Auckland and Christchurch, it accepts bulk surplus and donated food from food producers, growers and manufacturers and redistributes to more than 60 food hubs (regional food rescues, iwi, food banks and other charities) so that they may feed the communities they serve. Via these food hubs, NZFN ultimately serves a network of more than 2,000 frontline organisations across the country. NZFN's services reduce GHG emissions from landfill and ensure a positive social impact by getting food to where it's needed most. NZFN's operations are primarily funded by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to help address the issue of food insecurity nationwide. In addition to distributing donated food, NZFN purchases low-cost pantry staples and other household essentials with funds raised to help keep its Food Hubs well stocked. It also serves as procurement partner for registered Food Hubs to purchase food, and can be activated in the event of an emergency to procure goods for MSD and government providers.
