Kiwis set to buy more than 57,000 tonnes of fresh potatoes this year as growers celebrate International Day of Potato

New Zealanders are set to buy more than 57,000 tonnes of potatoes this year, underlining the crop’s enduring place on Kiwi dinner tables as Potatoes New Zealand marks International Day of Potato on 30 May.

The day shines a spotlight on the potato’s contribution to food security, nutrition and livelihoods and on the growers who bring the crop from paddock to plate.

Potatoes New Zealand, which represents more than 150 levy-paying growers farming over 10,000 hectares nationwide, says the day is a chance to recognise the local growers behind one of the country’s most widely eaten staple foods.

Consumer research commissioned by Potatoes New Zealand in 2025 found 40 per cent of New Zealanders eat fresh potatoes two to three times a week, 17 per cent eat them almost daily, and 26 per cent eat them once a week.

The same research found 63 per cent of consumers cook and eat frozen potato products at least once a week, including 24 per cent who use them two to three times a week and 5 per cent who eat them almost daily.

Potato crisps also remain a popular savoury snack, with 64 per cent of Kiwis eating them at least once a week.

“Potatoes are one of the most powerful foods we grow and eat,” says Kate Trufitt, Chief Executive of Potatoes New Zealand.

“Behind every potato is a grower combining generations of knowledge with modern farming practices to produce a food New Zealanders rely on every week.

“International Day of Potato is a chance to recognise that work and celebrate the people behind it.”

Globally, potatoes are recognised for their contribution to food security and resilient food systems, with New Zealand growers part of that effort.

To mark the occasion, Potatoes New Zealand is sharing delicious potato recipes throughout the month of May to encourage consumers to try new dishes at home.

For more great recipes visit: www.potatoesnz.co.nz/recipes

Follow Potatoes New Zealand on social media to view the 31 recipes in May: www.potatoesnz.co.nz/contact/connect