New Zealand fruit and veg costs rise 15pct

Stats NZ figures show a surge in food prices, with fruit and vegetables up 15 per cent. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Food prices have soared in New Zealand, growing by 8.3 per cent in the year to August, the largest spike in 13 years.

Like many nations, inflation is on the charge in New Zealand, with benchmark consumers price index (CPI) inflation at 7.3 per cent when last measured in July.