Food Trucks New Zealand

"Food is our common ground, a universal experience." - James Beard

Food trucks are popular the world over. Mention the word “food” and everyone, everywhere, pricks up an ear, looks up, licks a lip, or frowns, but there is always a reaction. Not all the time of course, however often enough in the day to be of interest to every individual on the planet. The varieties of dishes to satisfy one’s palette is enormous. We all can’t sample different dishes at home, at a restaurant, or visit a country to taste different cuisines. Food trucks are one way to sample dishes at prices most people can afford.

A Piece of History

Early in World War Two, the Maori Battalion, was provided with a food truck to feed its’

troops in Egypt and Italy. The funds to build and outfit the truck were raised by the children of the native schools throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. At war’s end the food truck was shipped back to New Zealand, touring the Maori schools that had contributed, and is now on display at the National Army Museum.

Popularity.

Food trucks of all varieties really grew in popularity from the early 2010s. Costs were lower to setup or buy into and licences to operate were less restrictive. Good profits were made with the only drawback being the lack of events available from which to operate. There are now many more events as councils appreciate the benefits socially and economically to the community. Auckland Night Markets run daily Monday to Sunday in a different location each night. Local weekend markets are open around the city. Annual markets are held on Labour Day weekend in October and Auckland Anniversary weekend at the end of January, both at St Heliers Bay. Food trucks are available at all these venues.

The Buzz

Auckland Food Truck Collective has expressed succinctly the experience of food trucks, “The whole experience of street food dining! The crowds, atmosphere, smells and most importantly, eating with your eyes and seeing your food being made on the spot by talented chefs! The unique style of each truck and supporting a small business.”

The Food Truck Business

Individuals, couples or families go into business for their own entrepreneurial reasons. Whether your food truck is operated as a supplement to your main income or in addition to an existing business the same rules apply. Do your due diligence; what is your cost of entry, your operational costs – power, petrol, entry fees, food supplies, packaging, cutlery, maintenance. GST is something to be aware of especially if your gross income exceeds 60 thousand. Most operators will not exceed that threshold.

If you need advice, get it from a professional. The simple equation to remember, what comes in must exceed what goes out. Then there is compliance, check with the council for a food licence to operate and be aware of the rules for the event at which you enter. Business costs, compliance issues and entry fees into events all grow over time, it’s just the nature of our modern life.

Remember the buzz, it will be fun.