Dignity, choice and support that goes beyond the supermarket shelves.
That's the approach at the heart of MBST's Tatou Social Supermarket, recently highlighted in international research into food insecurity.
For many New Zealand families, putting food on the table means making difficult choices about rent, power and other essentials. The 2026 Hunger Monitor found that 31% of New Zealand households experienced moderate or severe food insecurity in the past year.
At MBST, we know that while food support provides immediate relief, addressing the challenges behind food insecurity is just as important.
Recognising a different approach to food support
We were proud to participate in research undertaken by Australian Churchill Fellow Rodney Spinks, who explored international best practice in addressing food insecurity through social supermarkets.
His research highlighted Tatou Social Supermarket and MBST's integrated approach, recognising the importance of combining dignified, choice-based food support with practical help that builds long-term financial stability.
One of the key findings reinforces what we see in our work every day: dignified food access, alongside wider support services, plays an important role in long-term community wellbeing.
MBST Chief Executive Lara Dolan says the recognition reflects the importance of looking beyond immediate food needs.
“At Tatou, whānau choose groceries that suit their needs in a calm, welcoming environment. Alongside food support, our team provides financial mentoring, education, counselling and advocacy, connecting clients with housing, mental health and other specialist services when needed.
This support creates breathing space, helping whānau put money towards essential bills, manage debt and work towards their goals.”
In the year ended 30 June 2026, Tatou provided 1,884 supermarket shops, alongside 1,523 emergency food parcels through MBST's wider food support services.
Keeping Tatou’s shelves stocked and its doors open takes ongoing community support. Government funding covers just 10–15% of Tatou Social Supermarket's operating costs, meaning we rely heavily on the generosity of our food donors, community funders, corporate partners and individual supporters.
We're incredibly grateful to all of our partners and supporters including Foodstuffs North Island, PAK'nSAVE Māngere, Meat the Need, Bakers Delight Pukekohe and Botany Downs, alongside our dedicated volunteers, who help make this vital service possible.
Every shop offers choice. Every conversation builds trust. Together, they create opportunities for lasting change.
Read about Rodney Spinks' Churchill Fellowship research.
Want to learn more about how Tatou is making a difference?
Explore our Tatou Social Supermarket and discover how we're supporting local whānau.
MBST Chief Executive Lara Dolan pictured in Tatou Social Supermarket