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New Zealand food prices slightly fall in September

Food prices in New Zealand slightly fell 0.8 percent in September 2014, Statistics New Zealand reported. This fall follows a 0.3 percent rise in August and a 0.7 percent fall in July.

"Lower food prices in September came from seasonally cheaper vegetables, partly countered by a rise in meat prices," prices manager Chris Pike said.

Fruit and vegetable prices fell 6.5 percent, with vegetable prices (down 11 percent) the most significant contributor to the monthly fall in food prices. Meanwhile, grocery food prices fell 0.2 percent, with lower prices for butter and cheese. Prices were, however, higher for cakes and biscuits (up 4.4 percent), and yoghurt.

Meat, poultry, and fish prices rose 1.2 percent, influenced by higher prices for processed meat, pork, lamb, and beef. Non-alcoholic beverage prices rose 0.6 percent, influenced by less discounting on soft drinks.