Food prices are remaining stubbornly high despite a sharp drop in inflation.
Food prices increased 9.1% last year, with meat, poultry and fish, and groceries the main contributors.
Statistics New Zealand recorded an 11.1% rise in the cost of meat, poultry and fish, while grocery foods rose 11%.
Fruit and vegetable prices rose 8.7%, restaurant meals and ready-to-eat food increased by 6% and non-alcoholic drinks were up 5.6%.
Bread prices rose 20.2%, while cakes and biscuits cost 14% more.
In December, cheaper tomatoes, brocolli and lettuce lowered overall food prices by 0.2% for the month.
However, apple and kiwifruit prices rose during the month.
