Annual food inflation in New Zealand eased to 4.1% in September 2025, down from 5% in the previous month, marking its lowest level since April 2025. The grocery food group, which rose 3.9% year-on-year, contributed most to the overall increase in food prices. Meat, poultry, and fish followed, climbing 6.4% annually, while restaurant meals and ready-to-eat foods rose 2.5%. Fruit and vegetable prices increased 5.8%, and non-alcoholic beverages were up 3.3%, reflecting varied price pressures across different food categories.