Food Insecurity Hits Home: The Need Growing Across Aotearoa

A Wake‑Up Call: Hunger Increasing Nationwide and locally.

New national data from the New Zealand Food Network’s 2025 Hunger Monitor paints a stark picture of the changing landscape of food insecurity in Aotearoa. The report shows that one in three New Zealand households experienced some level of food insecurity in the past year, and 18% faced severe food insecurity, often skipping meals or reducing portions to get by.

Significantly, 68% of affected households were experiencing food insecurity for the first time, highlighting how rapidly financial pressure has intensified across the motu. Despite this growing need, shame remains a major barrier nearly half of food‑insecure households hesitate to seek support.

While the report doesn’t break down data specifically for the Upper Clutha, the national trends closely reflect what we are seeing locally. Community Link continues to support growing numbers of households who, despite working hard and budgeting carefully, are struggling with the rising cost of living — a pattern echoed nationwide where even full‑time workers and some high‑income households report difficulty affording food.

The Hunger Monitor reinforces what many of us in the Upper Clutha already know: food insecurity is no longer a fringe issue. It affects families, workers, and neighbours across every community including ours. Together, we can continue to respond with compassion, collaboration, and practical support.

The full report is available here, and you can visit our website for more information here.