Greens propose creating government-owned KiwiMart supermarket chain

Sunday 6 September 2026 · 4 outlets · 4 reports · updated Sun 6 Sep, 12:23pm

In this story Green Party, Chlöe Swarbrick, Woolworths New Zealand, Foodstuffs

The Green Party plans to establish a state-owned supermarket chain called KiwiMart to challenge the current grocery duopoly. The proposal involves purchasing 120 stores and two distribution centres from Woolworths and Foodstuffs. Estimates for the policy vary, with one report citing a $2.8 billion cost and another stating it would cost over $6 billion over four years.

How they headlined it

12pm

1. NZ HeraldSun 6 Sep, 12:00pm

   Election 2026: Greens promise to nationalise 120 supermarkets, costing $2.8 billion (opens in new tab)

2. Stuff via The PostSun 6 Sep, 12:00pm

   Greens promise to create ‘KiwiMart’ supermarket chain and break up duopoly (opens in new tab)

3. 1NewsSun 6 Sep, 12:11pm

   Greens propose new supermarket chain in bid to cut grocery costs (opens in new tab)

4. Otago Daily TimesSun 6 Sep, 12:23pm

   'Affordable Kai': Greens vow to break up supermarket duopoly (opens in new tab)