As the weather has warmed up, New Zealanders have begun preparing their festive menus.
Woolworths revealed insights into what Kiwi shoppers put in their trolleys and how they plan for the big day. Seventy-five percent of Woolworths shoppers said the perfect Christmas day involved a family meal at home or a relative’s house.
Christmas mince pie made a comeback in 2024, with demand up 17 percent compared to last year. By the end of the season, over three million fruit mince pies will be sold in Woolworths stores, requiring 63 tonnes of fruit mince and just under 43 tonnes of flour.
Trifle has also returned to the dessert menu in a big way, with custard and cream sales up ten percent on last year.
Since it has been a tough year for many, budgeting has been a top priority this holiday season, with consumers looking for great value and cheaper food options.
Half of Woolworths shoppers said they were more financially constrained for Christmas this year, and 21 percent thought they’d spend less on food than last year.
Seasonal fruit looked fantastic, and Kiwi shoppers have been making the most of delicious berries at great prices. In November, they bought 244 tonnes of strawberries, 35 tonnes of blueberries and 2.2 tonnes of raspberries. Strawberries will be one of the most sold items in Woolworths stores in the lead-up to Christmas.
New Zealanders also cannot resist the classic Christmas Ham as the top protein, with over 400 tonnes of ham expected to be sold in Woolworths stores this Christmas.
Lamb's legs were still popular for the BBQ, with around 200 tonnes purchased over the holidays. New products, like a carvery lamb leg, have been predicted to make it even easier to be a carving expert this year.
Outside of the classic proteins, more New Zealanders have turned to lighter flavours for their holiday cooking. Seafood options like salmon and prawns, as well as plenty of fresh salads and seasonal vegetables, have made their way onto the table.
Many New Zealanders have been changing their drink of choice, with demand for Low-Carb Beer up 32 percent and Low-Alcohol and Light wines proving popular.
Sake is a new option that has made it into the basket, with demand up ten percent. The traditional favourites are still a top pick, with sparkling wine, particularly champagne and prosecco, always a holiday classic.
Woolworths New Zealand’s Commercial Director, Pieter de Wet, said this was a special time of year, and everyone deserved to celebrate their unique traditions with delicious, great-value food.
“New Zealanders want us to help them find great value with their holiday menu, whatever that looks like, and we’ve created a fantastic lineup of offers that do exactly that,” said de Wet.
“We have a number of seasonal products on Low Price, which keeps prices the same for weeks and weeks, as well as our regular specials and member prices in the lead-up to the big day.”
