Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, Minister for Social Development and Employment, and Minister for Child Poverty Reduction Louise Upston visited the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) to open their new premises and warehouse in Penrose officially.
This visit underscored her support for NZ Food Network's mission to address food insecurity, a growing issue highlighted by their latest Food Security Snapshot survey. The survey revealed a staggering 42 percent increase in demand for food support in 2023 compared to 2022 and an 83 percent increase from 2021.
The surge in demand has been primarily due to the rising cost of living, which has put NZFN’s partner Food Hubs under increasing pressure as more and more Kiwi families struggle to put enough food on the table.
NZ Food Network has been working tirelessly to respond to this demand, and funding secured from the Ministry of Social Development in June 2023 has been extended until June 2025.
The Minister toured the new premises, 130 percent larger than the previous East Tamaki location. The expanded warehouse includes a new walk-in chiller and freezer, as well as a vibrant mural in the volunteering space symbolising connection and community.
The Minister shared her support for NZFN’s operations and mission during the event.
"The cost of living at the moment means that there are New Zealanders today who are having to approach organisations for assistance with food who have never had to do that before. Through extensive partnerships, 655,000 people are serviced out of [NZFN’s] complex monthly. That is an extraordinary number,” said Upston.
"Prime Minister Chris Luxon often talks about the three actors in society: government, community and business working together to have a greater impact. That’s exactly what this facility embodies, and by leveraging each part of the system, an even greater impact can be delivered. We know that food rescue has a great return on social investment - the research from the University of Otago says that every dollar invested in food rescue will generate $4.50 of value - so I’m delighted to be here today to officially open this wonderful premises that is meaning more New Zealanders are getting fed when they need it most."
NZFN Chief Executive Gavin Findlay also shared his gratitude for the Minister's visit and the support received.
“Bringing together some of our most valued corporate donors, recipient Food Hubs, supporters, and staff was a reminder of the real difference we are making in communities across the country. The support and funding from the Ministry of Social Development are crucial to our ongoing success. With continued support, we know we can continue to impact the lives of those in need significantly.”
Other speakers included Delphina Soti, Tumuaki / General Manager of St Vincent De Paul Tāmaki Makaurau, Simon Tucker - Director of Global Sustainability, Stakeholder Affairs and Trade at donor partner Fonterra, Kyrin Gourley - Supply Chain Business Manager at Foodstuffs South Island, and Leigh Hart - ambassador for NZFN’s Pitch In campaign.
