Hamilton and Waikato Food Banks Directory
Our guide lists Hamilton and the wider Waikato's most reliable and active food banks, alongside must-know tips and food bank alternatives
Updated 26 September 2023
This guide contains an extensive list of food banks operating all over Hamilton and Waikato. We have published this information to make food parcels accessible. Before visiting a food bank, we suggest calling in advance and asking about the opening hours and requirements. Doing so will avoid any disappointment, stress and frustration.
This is the first version of this guide - if you would like to share any tips, insights or information, please contact our research team.
Important: Food Grants from Work and Income may be a better first point of call, rather than an Hamilton and Waikato food bank
This is the first version of this guide - if you would like to share any tips, insights or information, please contact our research team.
Important: Food Grants from Work and Income may be a better first point of call, rather than an Hamilton and Waikato food bank
- Our guide to Work and Income's Food Grants assistance explains how you can apply for emergency assistance.
- Applications are assessed quickly, and if you are approved, a Food Grant is a type of assistance that you don’t need to pay back.
- There are some limitations about what you can buy, and you can’t get cash or change.
- A Food Grant provides a simple and discrete way of getting the assistance you need - our guide explains everything you need to know.
Know this first - Get Prepared for Your Food Bank Visit
When visiting food banks, it pays to come prepared with everything you need to satisfy the food bank staff. In general, documents should include:
Other considerations:
- Photo ID (i.e. driver's licence or passport)
- Proof of address (i.e. bank statement) so the food bank knows you're eligible for its service (as some limit food parcels to people in their area).
- A letter from Work and Income saying your request for a food grant has been denied (if this is applicable).
- If you are on a benefit, bring a breakdown of your payment (this can be found on MyMSD under payment information).
Other considerations:
- Get organised - Food banks have set visiting times, but there's no guarantee you'll be seen (so be prepared in advance and don't leave it until the last minute to get help)
- Ask for help - You may need some assistance taking the food parcel home - if you don't have transport, consider taking a friend to help you carry items home.
- Know the limits - Most food banks have limits - for example, up to three parcels within a three month period.
20+ Hamilton and Wider Waikato Food Banks Available Right Now
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Coromandel Foodbank |
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Thames Baptist Church Foodbank |
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Waikato Food Banks
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Salvation ArmyThe Salvation Army has almost 50 locations throughout New Zealand to get help with your food needs. They provide short-term food assistance as well as assistance in other areas including clothing and furniture. They’ll also help you get set up in other areas of your life for long-term support, including classes on parenting, budgeting, and housing.
Find a Salvation Army in your area.
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Morrinsville Baptist Church Food Bank
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Huntly Community Foodbank
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Te Awamutu Foodbank
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Taupo Food Bank
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Tauranga Food Bank
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Katikati Christian Foodbank
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Otorohanga Foodbank |
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Community Foodbank Te Kuiti
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Tokoroa Foodbank |
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Raglan Foodbank |
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Women’s Refuge Taupo Food Bank
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Ngaruawahia Tu Tangata Charitable Trust
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Whangamata Foodbank
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Matamata Community Foodbank
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