Every Kiwi has an opinion on where to get the best value for their groceries. While Pak’nSave is famous for its “New Low Price” jingle and Woolworths positions itself as the convenient mid-range option, New World often sparks debate: is it truly the most expensive supermarket in New Zealand? As a budget-conscious shopper here in Auckland, I decided to put it to the test this week, on February 17th, 2026.
My Price Comparison Methodology
To keep it fair, I checked prices at three major chains on the same day. I focused on “The Essentials”—the items most of us grab every single week.
One change I made this time was looking for Royal Gala Apples. They are in peak season right now (February to April), so they should be at their best price. Here is what I found for a standard basket of 10 items:
The Results: New World vs. Pak’nSave vs. Woolworths
| Item | New World (NZD) | Pak’nSave (NZD) | Woolworths (NZD) |
| 1kg Royal Gala Apples | $4.99 | $2.79 | $4.35 |
| 1L Standard Milk | $3.20 | $2.85 | $3.05 |
| 1kg Standard Flour | $2.50 | $1.95 | $2.15 |
| Dozen Eggs (Size 7) | $8.50 | $7.50 | $7.90 |
| 500g Butter | $6.99 | $6.20 | $6.60 |
| White Toast Bread | $3.20 | $2.99 | $3.10 |
| 1kg Chicken Breast | $14.50 | $10.89 | $12.50 |
| 1 Head of Lettuce | $4.50 | $3.50 | $3.99 |
| Can Chopped Tomatoes | $1.60 | $1.25 | $1.40 |
| Weet-Bix (425g) | $5.20 | $4.50 | $4.80 |
| Total Basket Cost | **$55.18** | $44.42 | $49.84 |
New World supermarket price comparison
My Conclusion: Is New World Worth It?
Based on my trip today, New World was indeed the most expensive, costing about $10 more for the same basket than Pak’nSave. Interestingly, Woolworths sat right in the middle.
While Pak’nSave is the clear winner for bulk buying and saving money, I noticed that New World had a much better selection of “in-season” specialty produce and the store felt less like a warehouse.
Pro Tips for Saving Money
If you prefer shopping at New World or Woolworths for the experience, here is how to keep the costs down:
- Use the ‘Grocer’ App: It’s a lifesaver in NZ. You can compare real-time prices between your local stores before you even leave the house.
- Clubcards are Mandatory: At New World and Woolworths, the “member price” can sometimes be $2-$3 cheaper per item. Never shop without scanning your card.
- Check the ‘Quick Sale’ Stickers: Visit after 7 PM. That’s when you’ll find the best markdowns on meat and bakery items.
Disclaimer: Prices are illustrative and based on a specific shopping trip on February 17, 2026. Actual prices may vary by store location and date.