Fruit, vegetables and similar household staples were the largest contributor to a monthly fall in food prices.

Stats NZ says prices were 6.3 percent higher in October than a year ago- but cheaper than in September, down 0.9 percent month on month.

LeaderBrand CEO Richard Burke says supply had been restricted and demand strong, but now they're working to recalibrate.

"We've got a whole lot of crop out there that's excellent quality, and the only thing we can do is promote it like heck to get it through the market. So that's a win for consumers- and we just hope they get out there and bank that win."

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