Foodstuffs North Island and Ngapuhi Iwi Social Services (NISS) has opened the second Whata Kai social supermarket in Kaikohe, after the first social supermarket in Napier in 2023, to support local people facing food insecurity.

Located at 25 Raihara Street, the Whata Kai supermarket – meaning “health, wellbeing, and economic – serves as a social hub for affordable and fresh produce, skill development, and employment opportunities.

“We know the power of whanaungatanga and manaaki, and Whata Kai brings these values to life. This is a space created by the community, for the community. It recognises the strength and potential of our whānau, offering more than kai, it’s a place for connection, learning, and resilience,” said Dr Moana Eruera, CEO of NISS.

New World Kaikohe, located in Hastings, serves as a buddy store to provide ongoing training and operational support for Whata Kai’s development. While the supermarket’s groceries section provides resting space with beverages, a sharing and distributing local produce area, and cooking classes.

“We’re here to support people. Whata Kai is a great example of how partnerships can create real impact, offering not just food, but dignity, choice, and practical support for the future,” said Chris Quin, Foodstuffs North Island’s CEO.

Designed by renowned Maori carver Pena Makoare, the Whata Kai’s logo incorporates the traditional concept of ‘whata’ – generosity, community, and family.