Food prices have risen their fastest annual rate in more than 30 years driven by sharp increases in groceries, fruits and vegetables.
Stats NZ said food prices rose 1.5 percent in February on the month before, to be 12 percent higher than a year ago.
That was the highest food inflation rate since September 1989.
Fruit and vegetables drove the monthly increase, up close to 6 percent, with small rises for meat and groceries.
However, the annual increase was caused by a 12 percent gain in grocery prices, notably eggs, cheese and potato chips.
Fruit and vegetables prices increased by 23 percent over the year, with tomatoes more than doubling price and potatoes rising by half.
Infometrics director and principal economist Brad Olsen told Midday Report high food prices were likely to stick around for some time yet.
Fruit and vegetables drove the monthly increase, up close to 6 percent.
