5 NZ Grocery Myths at Grocery Stores That Cost You Money (Debunked!)

Every week, Kiwi families walk into supermarkets believing they're making smart choices-only to unknowingly overspend because of long-held grocery myths at NZ grocery stores. At NzGrocerySaver, we've analysed thousands of prices across Countdown, Pak'nSave, and New World to separate fact from fiction for New Zealand grocery shopping.

Here are 5 common grocery myths that could be costing you $20-$50 every shop at grocery stores in NZ… and the truth behind them.

Myth #1: "Bigger Pack = Better Deal"

Reality: Not always! Supermarket chains often price larger packs to *look* like a deal-but the per-unit cost (e.g., per 100g) can be higher than the smaller size. Always check the unit price (found on shelf tags) at grocery stores. Our grocery app shows unit prices automatically so you never get tricked again shopping at NZ stores.

Myth #2: "Store Brands Are Lower Quality"

Reality: Many store-brand items (like Pam's or Signature Range) at NZ grocery stores are made in the same factories as name brands-sometimes by the exact same suppliers! In blind taste tests, Kiwis often can't tell the difference. You could save 20-40% with no drop in quality when shopping at New Zealand supermarkets.

Myth #3: "Shopping Online Is Always More Expensive"

Reality: While delivery fees add cost, online shopping reduces impulse buys-and some digital-only deals (like Countdown's "Online Exclusives") aren't available in-store. Plus, with our grocery app, you can compare online vs. in-store prices side-by-side before you commit to shopping at supermarket New Zealand locations.

Myth #4: "Loyalty Points = Free Money"

Reality: Points only save you money if you redeem them-and if the base price isn't inflated to begin with at NZ grocery stores. Some "points deals" are just regular prices dressed up. Always compare the actual dollar price first at different supermarket chains. Use Flybuys or Onecard as a bonus, not your primary savings strategy for New Zealand grocery shopping.

Myth #5: "All Supermarkets Charge the Same for Basics"

Reality: Milk, bread, and eggs can vary by $0.50-$1.50 between grocery stores-even in the same suburb! Pak'nSave might win on pantry staples, but New World supermarket NZ could be cheaper on fresh produce that week. That's why we built NzGrocerySaver: to show you real-time prices from your chosen local NZ shops in one place for smarter grocery store shopping.

Knowledge is your best tool at the checkout of NZ grocery stores. Once you stop believing these myths, you'll start seeing real savings at supermarkets-without coupons, extreme budgeting, or sacrificing quality when shopping at New Zealand grocery chains.