In a time when every dollar counts, finding the cheapest grocery stores is a top priority for many New Zealanders, especially in major cities like Auckland and Wellington. Food prices have remained high throughout 2025, but some supermarket chains continue to offer great value for money. If you want to keep your grocery bills under control without sacrificing quality, knowing where to shop is key. In this guide, we reveal the top 5 grocery chains offering the best prices as of June 2025.
Looking to cut down your grocery bill in 2025? Here are the five cheapest grocery stores you should visit in Auckland and Wellington.
1. Pak’nSave – Consistently the Cheapest Nationwide
Pak’nSave continues to lead as New Zealand’s most affordable supermarket chain. Surveys found that Pak’nSave stores offered the lowest prices in most regions, including Auckland and Wellington.
Key Features:
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No-Frills Shopping: Stores have a warehouse-style layout, reducing overhead costs.
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Bulk Buying: Purchasing in large quantities allows for lower prices.
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Limited Range: Focuses on essential items, which helps keep prices down.
Notable Stores:
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Auckland: Pak’nSave Albany – known for offering the lowest prices in the region.
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Wellington: Pak’nSave Kilbirnie – among the most affordable despite occasional competition from other chains.
2. Countdown – Competitive Pricing with Promotions
Countdown has emerged as a strong competitor, especially in Wellington’s Kilbirnie suburb, where it has sometimes offered lower prices than Pak’nSave.
Key Features:
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Frequent Promotions: Regular discounts and multi-buy deals.
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Loyalty Program: Everyday Rewards program offers additional savings.
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Online Shopping: Convenient online ordering with delivery or pickup options.
Considerations:
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Prices can vary between in-store and online shopping, with online orders sometimes incurring additional fees.
3. New World – Quality Products at a Premium
New World offers a more upscale shopping experience, which is reflected in its pricing. Surveys found New World to be the most expensive among major chains.
Key Features:
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Wide Product Range: Offers a variety of local and international brands.
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Fly Buys Program: Customers can earn points for rewards.
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Fresh Produce: Emphasis on high-quality fresh food items.
Considerations:
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Prices are generally higher, which may not suit budget-conscious shoppers.
4. Four Square – Convenience with Higher Prices
Four Square stores are typically smaller and located in suburban or rural areas. While they offer convenience, their prices are often higher due to smaller scale operations.
Key Features:
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Local Presence: Stores are often community-focused and easily accessible.
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Essential Items: Stock a range of everyday necessities.
Considerations:
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Limited product range and higher prices compared to larger chains.
5. SuperValue – Local Stores with Variable Pricing
SuperValue stores are independently owned and operated, leading to variability in pricing and product range.
Key Features:
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Community-Oriented: Stores often cater to local preferences and needs.
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Flexible Offerings: Product selection can vary based on local demand.
Considerations:
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Inconsistency in pricing and product availability across different locations.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
For shoppers in Auckland and Wellington aiming to stretch their grocery budgets, Pak’nSave stands out as the most economical choice. Countdown offers competitive pricing, especially when taking advantage of promotions and loyalty programs. While New World provides a premium shopping experience, it comes at a higher cost. Four Square and SuperValue offer convenience, but often at the expense of higher prices.
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each supermarket chain, consumers can make informed decisions that best suit their shopping preferences and budgetary constraints.
FAQs
Which supermarket is the cheapest in New Zealand overall?
Pak’nSave is consistently ranked as the cheapest supermarket chain across New Zealand, including Auckland and Wellington.
Why is Pak’nSave cheaper than other supermarkets?
Pak’nSave uses a no-frills, warehouse-style model that cuts overhead costs. They also focus on bulk buying and essential items, allowing them to offer lower prices.
Is Countdown cheaper than New World?
Yes, Countdown tends to be cheaper than New World, especially when factoring in promotions and loyalty discounts.
Are Four Square and SuperValue good for budget shopping?
While convenient, Four Square and SuperValue typically have higher prices and are better suited for quick, local shopping rather than major grocery hauls.
Can I find better grocery deals online or in-store?
It depends. Some supermarkets offer online-exclusive promotions, but often in-store shopping provides more access to unadvertised specials. Always compare both if you’re aiming for the best deal.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.