Mark Hooper Joins NZPork Board as Independent Director
Rural leader Mark Hooper has been appointed as an independent director to the NZPork board, bringing extensive farming, governance and advocacy experience to the role.
According to Stats NZ, while overall food prices have increased over recent years, pork prices have remained relatively steady.
Weighted average retail prices for February 2026 show pork loin chops at $16.92/kg, with annual growth of 1.4%, the lowest of any meat and poultry.
NZPork chief executive Brent Kleiss says pork prices show the meat's continued affordability when many everyday grocery items have seen larger price increases.
"The data speaks for itself," Kleiss says.
"For households navigating tighter budgets, pork continues to offer a fresh, reliable and versatile option," he says.
"Whether it's a roast, chops, or quick midweek meals, pork's steady pricing is making it a practical and popular choice for many New Zealand families."
Kleiss says that while many people think New Zealand pork is largely exported, it is actually almost all raised locally in New Zealand.
"That means when you choose New Zealand pork, you're getting a product that's produced by Kiwi families for Kiwi families. It's delicious, affordable and raised right here," he says.
Approximately 60% of the pork consumed in New Zealand is imported with much of it produced to lower standards, particularly in processed products, he says.
“Whilst almost all fresh pork is from New Zealand, Kiwi shoppers can look out for the 100% NZ Pork label and ask their retailer where it's from, if they're not sure. That way they know they are getting an excellent quality product that’s affordable and produced in New Zealand to high standards.”
