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The consumer watchdog has found almost 90 percent of New Zealanders have adopted mindful shopping habits as a result of the cost-of-living and -https://www.rnz.co.nz/programmes/the-detail/story/2018863009/climate-change-and-our-survival-instincts climate crises].
Latest data from Consumer NZ's sentiment tracker highlighted a recent spike in shoppers concern over the impacts of climate change, particularly for people aged 50 and over.
It showed around 85 percent of residents have maintained or increased their efforts to shop sustainably.
Consumer NZ chief executive Jon Duffy said climate concerns were a high priority for consumers.
"People are keen to make environmentally sustainable purchases, but at the same time they are constrained by the ongoing cost-of-living squeeze," he said.
The cost-of-living crisis was also impacting shoppers across the country, with data showing it remained the highest concern across all age brackets.
Duffy said more than three in every five people were choosing to buy less expensive products in an effort to save money.
"Whether you're 18 or 80, right now the cost-of-living is highly likely to be your number one worry," Duffy said.
More than 70 percent of New Zealanders have reported spending more of their income on essential goods, he said.
The cost of living has been consumers primary concern since early 2022, he continued.
