Food inflation slows to lowest level in over a year

New Zealanders have been hit particularly hard by high prices on fresh produce. (file image)
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller

Food price inflation has slowed to its lowest level in more than a year.

Stats NZ’s food price index fell 0.4 percent last month, bringing the annual rate down to 8 percent, the lowest since July last year.

Cheaper tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce helped to cut fruit and vegetables prices by 3.9 percent for the month.

Grocery prices were flat, and there were small rises for soft drinks, and takeaway and restaurant meals.

For the year, grocery prices and takeaway meals rose the most, followed by soft drinks, and fruit and vegetables.

Food prices are volatile and make up about a fifth of the overall inflation rate.

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