Why Is Food So Expensive When New Zealand Produces So Much?

New Zealand produces sufficient food to meet domestic needs many times over, but food affordability, supply chain resilience and equitable access remain significant challenges. Climate change, geopolitical uncertainty, global trade disruptions, energy and fuel costs, environmental pressures and changing consumer expectations are reshaping how food is produced, distributed and accessed. As New Zealand prepares for the 2026 General Election, questions about the future of our food systems are becoming increasingly important. Why is food so expensive in a country that produces so much? How resilient are we to global shocks? How do we balance exports with domestic needs? And what role should government, industry and communities play in ensuring all New Zealanders can access affordable, nutritious food? This inaugural Universities New Zealand Election Series brings together leading researchers from across Aotearoa to explore the evidence behind this important national conversation. Hosted by Lincoln University, the event is part of a new Universities New Zealand initiative bringing university research and expertise into the public conversations that matter as New Zealand approaches the 2026 General Election. Rather than debating political positions or advocating particular policies, this forum will examine what current research tells us about New Zealand's food system, the challenges it faces and the choices that lie ahead. The discussion will bring together perspectives spanning economics, food policy, food access and equity, resilience, Indigenous food systems, health, nutrition and food systems, exploring how these different parts of the system connect. Wednesday 23rd September 1.00pm-2.30pm Inaka, Waimarie Building, Lincoln University & virtual livestream Timings 1.00pm — Welcome and introduction 1.05pm — Why are we talking about food? Introduction to the Universities New Zealand Election Series and the question driving the event. 1.10pm — The big question: Why is food so expensive when New Zealand produces so much? Prof Alan Renwick, Lincoln University 1.25pm — Seven perspectives on New Zealand's food future Short, punchy contributions — approximately 7 minutes each: • Food loss & food waste – Dr Jessica O'Connor, University of Otago • Food markets, consumers & agribusiness – Dr Ou Wang, University of Waikato • Food systems – Assoc Prof Joya Kemper, University of Canterbury • Food system resilience – Assoc Prof David Denkenberger, University of Canterbury • Indigenous food systems and provenance – Prof Nick Roskruge, Massey University • Health equity – Associate Professor Anna Matheson, Victoria University of Wellington • Nutrition – Emeritus Prof Elaine Rush, University of Auckland 2.15pm — Bringing the evidence together A facilitated discussion with all speakers: What does the evidence tell us about the food system New Zealand needs for the future? • Why is food so expensive when New Zealand produces so much? • Is food security simply about having enough food — or does it mean something much broader? • Where are the biggest tensions between affordability, health, sustainability and economic prosperity? • What would make New Zealand's food system genuinely resilient to future shocks and disruptions? • Based on the evidence, what is the one thing you think New Zealand needs to get right about food over the next 10–20 years? 2.45pm — Audience Q&A 2.55pm — Closing remarks 3.00pm — Event concludes / networking and refreshments