In a time when grocery prices are climbing across New Zealand, one Christchurch family has managed the seemingly impossible: feeding two adults and two children on less than $100 a week. Even more surprising? They aren’t surviving on noodles and baked beans — they’re eating fresh, balanced meals every day.
Beating the cost-of-living crunch
Like many households, the family once struggled with high supermarket bills. But instead of giving in, they made it their mission to cut costs while still enjoying good food. Through planning, creativity, and discipline, they turned grocery shopping into a game of strategy.
Now, their weekly shop is often less than half what other families spend, proving that healthy eating on a budget is possible.
The strategies that work
The family has developed a system that keeps their meals cheap but varied. Their key tactics include:
- Bulk buying basics: staples like rice, oats, and lentils are bought in large bags for long-term savings.
- Seasonal shopping: fruits and vegetables are purchased only when in season, when prices drop.
- Meal planning: every meal is planned before shopping, cutting waste to nearly zero.
- Freezer use: leftovers are frozen for future meals instead of being thrown out.
- DIY cooking: homemade bread, yoghurt, and snacks cost a fraction of store-bought versions.
By combining these methods, they keep costs low while keeping meals exciting.
Comparing grocery costs
| Family shopping style | Average weekly spend | Food quality | Waste levels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical NZ family | $200–$250 | Balanced but costly | Moderate waste |
| Christchurch family (case) | Under $100 | Fresh, planned, affordable | Almost none |
The table shows just how drastic the difference is — and how much discipline can cut weekly bills without cutting quality.
What’s on their menu
A week of meals for the family might include:
- Oat porridge with seasonal fruit for breakfast.
- Homemade vegetable soup with bread for lunch.
- Stir-fried rice with garden-grown vegetables for dinner.
- Snacks like popcorn, yoghurt, or homemade muesli bars.
Despite the budget, the meals are nutritious, filling, and family-friendly. The kids never feel deprived, and the parents say they actually eat more variety than before.
Lessons from their approach
The biggest shift wasn’t just financial — it was mental. By viewing food as something to plan carefully rather than buy impulsively, the family avoided unnecessary spending. They also involved their children in meal prep, turning food into a family project rather than a rushed afterthought.
One parent explains: “It’s not about eating less — it’s about thinking smarter. Once we changed our mindset, the savings followed.”
Challenges they face
Of course, the approach isn’t without its difficulties. It requires discipline to avoid supermarket temptations, time to cook from scratch, and patience when prices spike even for basics.
But for this Christchurch family, the effort is worth it. They not only save money but also feel healthier and less stressed about bills.
Why their story matters
At a time when many families feel squeezed by rising costs, this example shows that there are practical ways to fight back. It doesn’t mean everyone must live on $100 a week, but it does highlight how planning and creativity can make a huge difference.
Their story is inspiring others online, where they’ve shared tips and weekly shopping lists to help other families cut back without sacrificing nutrition.
A new way forward
As more New Zealanders look for solutions to the cost-of-living crisis, stories like this remind us that small changes can lead to big savings. With discipline, planning, and a shift in mindset, eating well on a tight budget isn’t just possible — it can even become a lifestyle that brings families closer together.
