Learn how to save money on your BBQ as food prices go up!
There’s nothing more quintessentially Kiwi than a barbecue on a summer’s day!
A barbecue (BBQ) is a great way to enjoy tasty food, socialise with friends and get outdoors in the lovely warm weather.
However, with rising food costs and one of the toughest cost-of-living crises in recent decades, the classic Kiwi BBQ could hit your wallet hard.
So to make sure Kiwis can still put on plenty of BBQs this summer, we’ve put together some tips on how you can save on your groceries!
Food Prices Soar!
Every month, Statistics NZ, Tatauranga Aotearoa publishes a report on the annual food prices compared to the year before.
Their most recent report for December 2022 saw the largest annual increase for food prices in 32 years. They were 11.3 percent higher than in December 2021.
Some of the dramatic increases included a 23 percent rise in fruit and vegetable prices and an 11 percent rise in meat, fish and poultry prices.
It’s clear that the cost of groceries is rising and doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
The Cost Of A Typical BBQ In 2023
It’s impossible to calculate how much a BBQ cook up will cost for all Kiwis, as it depends on how many people will be eating and what you’re wanting to cook.
So, the next best thing we can do is research how much a classic Kiwi BBQ would cost for six people. This will help gauge how pricey your own BBQ could end up being.
In our calculations we included staples like steak, sausages, tomato sauce, bread, and salad (lettuce, tomatoes, onion, cheese and cucumber).
Here are the results!
Countdown (Online Shopping)
- $78.20
New World (Online Shopping)
- $70.17
PAK'nSAVE (Online Shopping)
- $61.30
*These figures should be used as a guide only. Prices will vary when you shop yourself. Prices stated above were taken on 25/01/2023.*
While PAK’nSAVE came out as the cheapest option, there were some major price differences between certain products across the three supermarkets (thus, you should use FoodMe, more on that later).
On paper, it may not seem like a huge amount to have to spend on. Keep in mind though that this is a relatively simple BBQ without any fancy bits on the side. If you have to feed heaps of hungry adults, then the costs will quickly stack up. Plus, we haven’t even included any of the costs related to the actual BBQ itself, like gas bottles.
Also, in our research, we noticed that vegetables and meat cost a considerable amount more than all other groceries. This isn’t the greatest news for BBQs which rely on those two key staple foods!
With skyrocketing inflation and high interest rates, the Kiwi BBQ is now feeling more like a luxury than a typical meal!
How To Save!
We want all Kiwis to have hearty BBQs across the season without it breaking the bank. So, we’ve put together our top ways you can save on groceries!
1). Check out FoodMe!
Need to find which supermarket has the lowest prices? Then head to FoodMe! It’s a grocery comparison website where you can compare the prices of different grocery items from various stores in your area. By comparing prices, you’ll see where you can get the best deals and save heaps of money!!
2). Only buy on special or in season
We all love the classic meats and vegetables that are associated with BBQs! However, these items can sometimes be costly if not bought at the right time. So, shake it up this summer and opt for foods that are on special or in season! Not only will this save you cash but you’ll also get tastier food.
3). Make some left-overs
Make your BBQ last more than one meal. Buy a little bit extra of all your groceries and use any left-overs for lunches or dinners throughout the summer period. This will cut down on food waste, save you money, and allow you to enjoy more of the sun!
For even more tips on how to save money, check out our other recommendations! Or read about how to beat rising inflation!
Head to FoodMe!
As mentioned previously, the best way to have a BBQ on a budget is by heading to FoodMe!
FoodMe is one of NZ Compare's comparison websites that lets you compare grocery prices.
Why waste your time and energy by going to different supermarkets to try and find the best prices? With FoodMe, all you have to do is search up the item and you’ll be shown which store has the cheapest price! It only takes seconds to find great savings on FoodMe!!
FoodMe is super easy to use! Just head to the website, enter your postcode and start searching for the items you’re after!
To find out more about FoodMe, click here!