5 ways you can actually save on food

22 June 2021
4M TO READ

We’re always thinking of tips to help our lovely Kiwi readers save some bucks! Lots of us find it difficult to save on living costs and food, but with the right tips - and a bit of time dedication it's super possible… Here are 5 ways you can save on food with awesome links to find out even more for yourself wherever you are in our beautiful New Zealand! Ya-as!

Fruit & Vege co-op & community gardens

Fruit doesn't just come from a shop. Fruit and Veg co-ops operate on a social enterprise model where people become members and are able to purchase fresh produce and other foodstuffs, at heavily discounted prices. Community gardens can be found all over the country, you can also plant some yourself and exchange veggies with your neigbours and friends! The Zero Hunger has a map with lots of options people can go through and find out where these gardens are!

Coupons

There are so many coupons for cheaper food nowadays. Look out for He4llo Fresh discounts, for example,where Kiwis can get coupons for up to 90% off for their first time! Wow, how cool! If you have never used Uber Eats before you can get $15 off your first Uber Eats order when you use this code at checkout:eats-dallasr185ue. While there are more coupons for packaged goods than fresh foods, there are coupons out there for everything from salad greens to fresh chickens. Markets often have in-store coupons on fresh items as well, including produce and meat – though you may need to become a member of theiraffinity shopperprogram to get the discounts!

Buying the food of the season

You’ll not only save cash, but you’ll also enjoy the most wholesome food on the market. Print out a helpful list of produce and stick it in your fridge. This way, you’ll always be aware of what’s in season when you head to the grocery store. Who doesn’t love supporting their local businesses? Buying locally grown produce helps stimulate your local economy and you can also freeze it into smaller portion sizes.

Food Grant, food bank or community meals

Finally some options when things are tight or if you’ve had to pay for an unexpected bill or essential cost, meaning you don’t have enough money to buy food, you’ll generally be able to apply for a Food Grant. Some examples of essential costs or changes of circumstance:A doctor's visit, school clothes or materials for your child, an unexpected reduction in your hours of work.A Food Grant is a type of assistance that you don’t need to pay back.If you are a current Work and Income user(or have been in the past) you can oftenapply online using MyMSD. For community meals and food banks there are options available all over the country.A quick Google will take you a long way as well!

More ways to save on food with awesome food shows

Hosted by local chef Michael Van de Elzen and restaurateur Ganesh Raj, Eat Well for Less is here to help New Zealanders shop, cook and eat better – and save on their household bills along the way. 

Jamie’s money saving meals are a great way to cook delicious and nutritious meals without breaking the bank. Take a look at some ideas from Jamie’s book and show Save with Jamie.

Your local news. It might not seem like it, but the news is very useful for saving money. In the morning, you can find the traffic report so you’re not burning gas. My local news features deals around town including deals at restaurants, clothing stores, and grocery stores. In addition, there is also news on free fun events like concerts and festivals as well as free health talks or health screenings.

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