FOR Agnes Teupola Seniteteva Shute, grocery shopping is more than a household chore it is a thoughtful commitment to providing healthy meals, managing family finances, and maintaining strong family values.
Born and raised in Waibau, Sawani in Naitasiri and Vusuya, Kuku in Nausori, Agnes traces her roots to Tubou, Lakeba in Lau.
The 52-year-old resides at Tacirua East New Subdivision, where she shares a fulfilling life with her husband and their three children.
A devoted wife and mother, Agnes credits much of her family’s strength and success to the unwavering support of her husband, whom she describes as a constant source of inspiration across their spiritual, personal, and professional journeys.
When it comes to shopping for her family, NewWorld IGA in Suva remains her supermarket of choice. The decision is largely based on convenience and quality.
Located close to her workplace, the supermarket allows her to shop efficiently while also providing regular access to fresh local produce.
“Our family shops on a bi-weekly basis, usually on Wednesdays or Friday afternoons,” she says.
“I generally budget between $300 and $350 for groceries, depending on what the family needs.”
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of Agnes’ top priorities.
Her family’s meal plans reflect a strong preference for fresh and nutritious foods.
Weekend meals feature Crest chicken or fresh seafood such as yellowfin tuna, barracuda, wahoo, and swordfish.
Traditional favourites such as nama (sea grapes) and lumi (seaweed) are also regular additions to the family table.
“We rarely eat red meat,” Agnes explains.
“Fresh vegetables and fruits form an important part of our daily meals throughout the week.”
Her shopping basket is often filled with locally grown produce, reflecting both her commitment to healthy living and her support for local farmers.
While she occasionally purchases imported fruits such as apples and oranges, local fruits and vegetables remain household staples.
Although she appreciates the competitive prices offered at NewWorld IGA, Agnes has also developed practical strategies to manage rising household expenses amid increasing living costs and fuel prices.
“Instead of making multiple trips, especially to buy fish and vegetables, I now walk to the Suva market during my lunch break or after work,” she says.
“It helps save on fuel and allows me to purchase fresh produce directly.”
Transportation costs are another area where the family has found savings.
Agnes often coordinates her work schedule with her daughter, who also works in Suva, allowing them to share rides and reduce unnecessary travel.
Beyond supermarket shopping, Agnes is a strong supporter of local markets.
In fact, she estimates that she spends more at the Suva market than at the supermarket because it serves as her primary source of fresh fruits and vegetables.
“I usually buy enough produce to last our family for two weeks,” she says.
“I regularly purchase ota, moca, watercress, nama, and lumi from the market.”
Her family’s connection to the land also plays an important role in keeping food costs manageable.
Agnes frequently visits the family farm at Niuvola in Waibau, where she harvests coconuts, fresh rourou, plantains (vudi), and bananas grown by her husband.
These home-grown produce items not only supplement the family’s meals but also help reduce grocery expenses.
For Agnes, smart shopping begins long before entering the supermarket.
Planning and discipline are key principles she believes every shopper should adopt.
“My advice is to always prepare a shopping list before you go shopping.
“If you forget, create a mental list while pushing your trolley. Buy only what you need and choose the best quality products that fit within your budget.”
She also encourages shoppers to embrace reusable shopping bags as a simple way to reduce unnecessary expenses and contribute to environmental sustainability.
“Once you’ve unpacked your groceries, fold your bags and place them back in your handbag or car so they’re ready for your next shopping trip,” she advises.
Through careful planning, healthy food choices, and practical budgeting habits, Agnes demonstrates that smart shopping is not just about saving money.
It is about creating a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle for the entire family.
