Important Facts of the News
- Implementation begins in Term 1, 2026 across contributing primary schools (Years 0–6).
- Programme to serve around 242,000 students daily.
- Ten suppliers contracted to deliver lunches to 188 schools.
- Average meal cost: NZD $3.46 per student.
- Projected taxpayer savings: NZD $145 million in 2026.
- More than 30 million meals served since Term 1, 2025.
- Funding extended to 10,000 children in early learning centres.
- No extra funding required—savings come from efficient ordering.
- Previous government cost per lunch reached up to NZD $8.68.
- Suppliers include Café Mahia, Pita Pit, Subway, and University of Canterbury Student Association.
Affordable and Nutritious Meals for Young Learners
Starting Term 1, 2026, New Zealand’s revamped school lunch programme will serve affordable and healthy lunches to students across all contributing primary schools. The initiative will provide nutritious meals to about 242,000 students every school day, aligning all schools in the scheme under one efficient model approved by the Cabinet in 2024.
Experienced Suppliers Selected for Wider Reach
Ten suppliers have been chosen to manage meal distribution to 188 contributing primary schools. Each supplier will provide standard and special diet lunches using sustainable packaging and easy ordering systems. These suppliers will handle everything from delivery to waste management, ensuring minimal food wastage and environmental impact.
Regional Model Designed for Accessibility
The government’s regional supply model aims to cater effectively to New Zealand’s smaller and remote schools. With several suppliers serving distinct areas, the programme can reach even isolated communities while saving the public about NZD $145 million in 2026. Café Mahia, for instance, continues to deliver lunches to two schools in Wairoa even during flood disruptions.
Lower Costs Through Smart Management
The average lunch now costs NZD $3.46, with supplier rates varying between NZD $3 and $5 per meal, depending on school size and remoteness. Unlike previous administrations, no new funding is being added; instead, savings come from flexible ordering that allows schools to order meals based on actual demand. This shift prevents unnecessary spending on uneaten lunches.
Comparative Savings Over Previous Model
Under the former Labour-led system, school lunches cost as high as NZD $8.68 per student. The current approach, which integrates commercial expertise and efficiency, is projected to save taxpayers roughly NZD $145 million each year. These savings also fund nutritious meals for nearly 10,000 children aged two to five in low-equity community-based early learning centres.
Suppliers Behind the Programme
- Appresso Pro Foods
- Montana Group
- Ka Pai Kai
- KDJ Catering
- Café Mahia
- Star Fresh
- University of Canterbury Student Association (UCSA)
- Knuckles (The Food Company)
- The Y Gisborne
- Pita Pit and Subway
Delivering Value and Nutrition
Since Term 1, 2025, over 30 million healthy meals have been distributed to students across more than 1,000 schools. While some suppliers will see adjustments under the new system, the focus remains firmly on providing nutritious meals to children at a sustainable cost to taxpayers.