‘Even fruit is a luxury’: What a multi-generation household spends on groceries – 1News

For the Tofilau family, who share a home with three generations under one roof, the rising cost of groceries has made even basic items such as fruit feel like a luxury. The family, based in Auckland, says that their weekly grocery bill has reached $500, a figure that has forced them to make difficult choices about what they can afford to buy.

Managing Expenses Across Generations

The household includes parents, children, and grandparents, all living together to help manage expenses. Despite pooling their resources, the family reports that the cost of essential food items continues to climb. “Even fruit is a luxury now,” said family member Sia Tofilau. “We have to think twice before putting it in the trolley.”

According to Sia, the family has been forced to cut back on items that were once staples. “We used to buy more meat and fresh produce, but now we have to be careful with what we choose,” she explained. The family prioritizes basic necessities, often leaving out items that are not strictly essential.

Impact of Rising Prices

Statistics New Zealand data shows that food prices have increased by 12.1% in the past year. This rise has had a significant impact on households across the country, particularly those with multiple generations living together. The Tofilau family says that despite budgeting carefully, their grocery bill continues to rise.

“We try to shop around and look for specials, but it’s not always enough,” said Sia. She noted that the family sometimes visits multiple supermarkets in search of better prices, but even then, the savings are limited. “We have to make every dollar count,” she added.

Adapting to Financial Pressures

To cope with the increased costs, the family has made several adjustments. They have reduced the amount of meat they purchase and have started to rely more on cheaper alternatives such as canned goods and frozen vegetables. “We’re always looking for ways to stretch our budget,” Sia said.

The family also grows some of their own vegetables in a small garden at home. While this helps offset some costs, it does not fully meet their needs. “It’s something, but it’s not enough for everyone,” Sia explained.

Broader Context

The Tofilau family’s experience reflects a broader trend seen across New Zealand, where many households are struggling with the rising cost of living. According to Statistics New Zealand, food prices have seen their largest annual increase in more than three decades.

For families like the Tofilaus, these changes mean making tough decisions every week. “We just do what we can to get by,” Sia said. “But it’s getting harder.”