Woolworths New Zealand Faces Charges Over Dunedin Rodent Infestation

Woolworths New Zealand Limited has admitted to charges relating to a significant rodent infestation at its Dunedin South supermarket. According to Vincent Arbuckle, deputy director-general of New Zealand Food Safety, the government concluded its investigation and laid the charge under the Food Act 2014. This charge stems from the company’s failure to identify and escalate the infestation in line with its food control plan, a violation that carries a potential maximum fine of $200,000.

During a court session, Woolworths acknowledged the charge through its legal representative, who indicated that not all facts surrounding the case have been fully agreed upon. Judge David Robinson expressed concerns about the prolonged nature of the case, urging the parties involved to resolve the outstanding facts before the sentencing scheduled for March 27, 2024.

The Dunedin South supermarket was closed for 18 days in February last year after multiple reports of rodent sightings and captures prompted the decision. During this closure, a total of 23 rats were caught. In April of the same year, there were reports of a “small number of rat captures” at the store; however, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) deemed the situation manageable and did not require a further closure.

In response to an Official Information Act request made last year, an MPI spokesperson revealed that six other supermarkets in the South Island had faced investigations for rodent activity in the past five years. Among these, three supermarkets were confirmed to have experienced rodent infestations.

This situation raises significant concerns about food safety and hygiene practices within the New Zealand supermarket sector. As investigations continue, industry observers will be closely watching the outcome of the sentencing and any potential implications for food safety regulations in the country.