14 March 2024

Hayley and Andrew Griffiths

Only a few weeks into the job, and Andrew Griffiths, the new owner operator of New World Timaru alongside his partner Hayley, say they feel privileged for the opportunity to serve the community of Timaru and raise their children in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful towns.

“Friendly locals, a wonderful swimming pool and library and everything is only a bike ride away, this town has everything you need for kids! It’s big but not too big.” Andrew says.

Andrew joined the Foodstuffs South Island co-operative eight years ago as a store manager at New World Mosgiel before taking over as the owner of New World Winton in May 2022.

Born and bred in Dunedin, Andrew says taking the leap to Timaru was an exciting next step for his young family.

“Winton and the Southland region will always have a special place in our hearts, but the opportunity to return to Hayley’s hometown, move closer to family and take over a much larger store, made it the right move for us to make,” he says.

“It’s wonderful to be part of such a close-knit community and we’re very grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received from our new staff and the local residents.”

Hayley says customers can expect to see herself and Andrew working behind the checkout or assisting customers.

“We love meeting locals and enjoy working hand in hand with our team! Our favourite place is the world is being on the shop floor,” she says.

“We have a passionate team who always want to try new things and get creative with products like our specialty in-store made sausages, a huge range of deli items, and varying fresh displays,” says Andrew.

“The range and quality at New World Timaru are second to none. You can come to New World Timaru not knowing what you'll be having for dinner, and we’ll make sure you leave with something delicious.”

Each New World is uniquely tailored to the local region, and Hayley and Andrew are looking at ways they can get involved with the Timaru community.

“We want to do lots of small things, but be as far reaching as we can,” Andrew says.

“We’ve already begun to donate to local food banks and look for new sponsorship opportunities.

When Andrew and Hayley aren’t working, they can be found out and about exploring the local area with their children.

“It’s one of the best places in New Zealand for families, and we couldn’t be happier to be here,” Hayley says.