Figures released by Statistics New Zealand prove that when you shop in season, you are shopping smarter and saving money, says HortNZ.

The figures on prices for fruit and vegetables compare prices paid at different times of the year for the same products.

Strawberries can cost up to $30 a kilo in July, when they are imported.

This comparison clearly shows that although a product may be available all year round, there are certainly times of the year when it is likely to be cheaper, because availability is better - especially when it is locally grown.

'Every Kiwi household should get a copy of this information and pin it on the fridge, and have it handy for the next food shopping trip,” says HortNZ president Julian Raine.

'Lots of people tell us they would buy in season, but these days, they are not even sure when that is. With information like this, those questions can be answered.”

For example, the figures show that strawberries double in price in July to almost $30 a kilo, compared to only just over $13 in November.

'And that's when most people assume they are expensive, because it is the beginning of the season,” adds Julian.

'The truth is, they will always be more expensive in the winter, when they are imported.

'It's great to see Statistics New Zealand crunching their numbers this way, it is really helpful for all Kiwis to get this kind of information.”