It's a supermarket like no other in New Zealand. 

There's no piped background music, the lights are dimmed or turned off, an air of quiet calm has replaced the hurry and hassle of grocery shopping.

For one hour a week, Countdown Marton is a peaceful haven — and that is delighting an oft-forgotten section of the community.

For parents with autistic children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, a minor task like grocery shopping can be impossible.

But Marton Countdown has introduced the first ever "quiet hour" for those with autism and sensory issues, and every Wednesday from 3pm until 4pm, the store is transformed.

Store manager Kristen Dinnan spoke with Mike Hosking about the new initiative.

LISTEN ABOVE AS KRISTEN DINNAN SPEAKS WITH MIKE HOSKING