Hey Facebook, what's on special this week in Tauranga?

"What's on special this week in Tauranga" Facebook group creator Maxine Paterson is trying to help others find bargains. PHOTO/JOHN BORREN

A Facebook group helping Tauranga residents find local bargains in the midst of rising food prices is becoming increasingly popular.

"What's on special this week in Tauranga" was created by Maxine Paterson in 2015 and now has nearly 6000 members.

Ms Paterson said she received between four to five requests a day of people wanting to join the group.

The mother of three children, aged 3 to 13, said she created the page to help people who were struggling find good deals and affordable grocery items.

"There's no excuse not to eat; there's no reason someone can't feed their family," she said.

Ms Paterson said the internet was a major help in finding ways of making her food bill stretch further.

She said she looked online at different supermarket specials and used the Facebook group she created to view other people's good finds.

Ms Paterson said the feedback she had received from members of the group had been positive.

"I've received messages from people thanking me and saying how grateful they are for the group."

Elyse Schroder from Gate Pa has been using the Facebook group for the past six months to ensure she always keeps to her food budget.

"I only have $60 a week for my partner and myself to spend on food and household items, so I do a lot of searching for specials before doing my weekly shopping."

Ms Schroder, 20, said she enjoyed the sense of community the page brought, and she always received "friendly and useful responses."

Welcome Bay community manager Anna Larson said community pages had a lot of value in bringing groups together and were an excellent way to get information out there.

Maxine's money-saving tips

- Don't be afraid to buy marked down or reduced products
- Always shop around, a different supermarket may have better specials
- Use the internet, check for online specials and brochures
- Buy vegetables in season
- Don't be afraid to buy bulk and freeze
- Be flexible with your shopping list. If there is an excellent special, take advantage.