Pumpkins, a winter soup warmer and Sunday roast staple, have seen a significant price drop, down 57% in June compared to the same time last year, according to Stats NZ.
Foodstuffs North Island’s head of meat and produce, Brigit Corson, said whole crown pumpkins, one of New Zealand’s most popular varieties with its large size, offers a huge amount of value for customers.
“It’s fantastic to see pumpkins back on the shelf at great prices for Kiwis. Cyclone Gabrielle wiped out a lot of the crop in 2023 and they were in short supply leading to higher-than-normal prices,” she said.
“This year has been the complete opposite, with amazing growing conditions delivering huge yields, resulting in pumpkins at large sizes, so one pumpkin is going to go a very long way.”
In New Zealand, pumpkins are grown as an annual crop, planted in spring and harvested in autumn, just in time to feature in a wide range of winter recipes.
Unearthed Produce is a local supplier of pumpkin for Foodstuffs North Island’s stores.
General manager Ben Buchanan said it’s been pleasing to see the pumpkin crop rebound after last year’s weather events impacted the growing season.
“Pumpkins are highly dependent on natural environmental factors and prevailing growing conditions,” he said.
“With this year’s great growing conditions – including an optimal combination of heat, sunlight and timely rain – we’ve achieved solid pumpkin yields and there’s good supply across New Zealand.”
