Do I need to register to sell food I cook at home, like samosas or cakes?
Yes, usually. Selling food you make at home follows the same rules as a commercial kitchen, so you must register under a Food Control Plan or a National Programme. Home bakers who only make cakes that do not need to be kept cold, and who sell directly to customers, may not need to. Check MPI's exemptions. Also ask the council whether you can run the business from home.
Official figures
- Who must register
- Anyone who makes, sells, transports or serves food commercially must register.1
- Who you register with
- You may register with your local council or with MPI. This depends on where you operate and which type of plan you need.1
- Restaurants, cafés and takeaways
- If you make food to be eaten straight away, use a Food Control Plan. If you only reheat ready-made food (for example, bought pies or wedges), use a National Programme.2
- National Programme levels
- There are 3 levels based on food safety risk: Level 1 is lower risk, Level 2 is medium risk and Level 3 is higher risk.2
- First check for a new business
- Usually within six weeks after your registration is approved.5
Official sources
- Apply for food registrationAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Food control plans and national programmesAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Running a home-based businessAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
- Markets, food stalls and fundraisingAuckland Council · aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Registering a food business →
People also ask
- What food licence do I need to open a restaurant in New Zealand?
- What is the difference between a Food Control Plan and a National Programme, and which one do I need?
- Do I register my café or bakery with the council or with MPI?
- How soon after registering will my food business be checked, and what do they check?
- Do I need to register to sell food at a weekend market?
- Does a school or charity fundraiser selling food need to register?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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