If you're like most Kiwis, you've probably got a Flybuys card in your wallet, an Onecard in your phone, and maybe even an Airpoints account you forgot about. But which one actually helps you save the most on groceries? And more importantly-how can you use them *strategically* to stretch your weekly shop further?
At NzGrocerySaver, we analysed real redemption values, point-earning rates, and supermarket pricing across New Zealand to give you a clear, no-fluff comparison. Let's break it down.
Earn: 1 point per $1 spent at Countdown (2 points on promo days).
Redeem: 1,000 points = $5 off groceries.
Real Value: 0.5% cashback (or 1% on double-point days).
Best For: Weekly Countdown shoppers who want instant grocery discounts. No expiry if you earn/spend yearly.
Earn: 1 point per $1 at both stores.
Redeem: 1,000 points = $5 off groceries (same as Flybuys).
Real Value: Also 0.5% cashback-but with a twist: Onecard often runs "double points" and "bonus point" promos on high-value items (e.g., meat, dairy).
Best For: Families who split shopping between Pak'nSave (for price) and New World (for convenience).
Earn: Varies-e.g., 1 Airpoints Dollar per $100 at Countdown (via Air NZ credit card or linked account).
Redeem: 1 Airpoints Dollar = $1 off groceries at Countdown or online.
Real Value: Only ~0.5-1% if you're not flying-but much higher if you travel.
Best For: Frequent flyers who want to offset grocery costs with travel rewards. Not ideal for pure grocery savings.
For pure grocery savings, Flybuys and Onecard are nearly identical in base value-but Onecard edges ahead thanks to more frequent and generous bonus point promotions on essentials.
However, the real winner? Using the right card at the right store. If you shop at Countdown, use Flybuys. If you shop at Pak'nSave or New World, use Onecard. And if you fly often, link Airpoints for extra value.
Earning points is only half the battle. The other half? Spending your dollars where prices are lowest. That's where NzGrocerySaver comes in. Our app shows you real-time prices across all major supermarkets-so you can choose the store with the best combo of low prices and point opportunities.
Bottom line: Loyalty programs won't make you rich-but used wisely, they can save your family $100-$200 a year on groceries. And when every dollar counts, that's worth celebrating.
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