The Strait of Hormuz handles about 20% of the world’s oil supply. It’s under siege and the effects have already landed on New Zealand shores.
As shocking as this is, I can’t say it comes as a surprise to me. In a moment, you’ll understand why.
I run Bliss Box, a local organic food delivery business in New Zealand. Here’s what I’m seeing on the ground right now.
What’s Happening to Transport Costs in NZ
Transport costs are climbing fast… not just our deliveries to you, but inbound freight to our hub. Even a small local farmer doing a 50km run to town is paying a lot more in diesel than they were two weeks ago.
NZ food producers are mostly holding their breath on prices for now, but that won’t last. When the dam breaks, price increases will flood all at once.
Which Foods Will Get More Expensive?
Some specifics:
Bananas, coffee and chocolate are very likely to head even higher. Coconut-based products have already doubled. Even though we don’t sell imported brands, anything with imported ingredients will likely cost more too.
Local and NZ-made organic food is the most stable category right now, which is one reason we built the business around it. Conventional sprays and fertilisers are petrochemical-based, which is why I believe organic food will eventually cost less than conventional.
What About Bliss Box Prices?
For now, we’re taking price hikes on the chin. But I gotta be straight with you: we can only hold out so long.
What Can You Do Right Now?
- Stock up on bulk pantry staples now, before prices move further. Think dried legumes, grains, olive oil.
- I wrote a six-part series on how to grow your own food that’s worth a read right now. Even though summer is coming to a close, there’s plenty of winter greens you can get started on.
- Start thinking about what greater energy independence could look like for your family: Solar, an EV, working remotely off grid from a lifestyle property.
Those steps matter. But some of us have taken it further.
Going Off-Grid: The Bigger Picture
Next week I’ll share what life actually looks like living off-grid… and what to look for if you’re browsing Trade Me looking to escape yourself.
Until then, enjoy these last days of summer.
Fraser
P.S. Bill Mollison warned me about this.
Fraser is the owner of Bliss Box, an organic food delivery service based in Auckland, New Zealand. He lives off-grid on a permaculture property with his family.