Fresh, local ingredients and world-class wines in a spectacular setting
New Zealand's cuisine is defined by its geography. As an island nation with fertile soil and clean oceans, we produce some of the world's best meat, dairy, and seafood. A "Kiwi" meal often centers around these high-quality, fresh ingredients, prepared simply to let the flavors shine.
From the traditional Maori Hangi (earth oven) to modern fusion cuisine in Auckland and Wellington, dining here is a diverse and delicious adventure.
With 15,000km of coastline, our seafood is unbeatable. Try Green-lipped Mussels (best in Marlborough), Crayfish (Rock Lobster, famous in Kaikoura), Bluff Oysters (world famous, in season March-Aug), and Whitebait Fritters.
The classic Friday night takeaway. Fresh fish (ask for Snapper, Tarakihi, or Blue Cod) battered and fried with a scoop of chips. Best eaten on the beach!
New Zealand lamb is world-renowned for its tenderness and flavor. A roast lamb dinner with mint sauce, roasted kumara (sweet potato), and vegetables is the ultimate comfort food.
A traditional method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. The result is tender meat and vegetables with a delicious smoky, earthy flavor. Best experienced at a cultural show in Rotorua.
The unofficial national dish. Flaky pastry filled with minced meat and gravy (Mince & Cheese) or steak. Available at every bakery and gas station ("servo").
Pavlova: Meringue dessert with a crisp crust and soft inside, topped with
whipped cream and kiwi fruit.
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: Vanilla with honeycomb toffee pieces.
Manuka Honey: Famous for its health properties.
New Zealand is famous for its cool-climate wines.
Sauvignon Blanc: The Marlborough region produces the world's best—zesty,
aromatic, and tropical.
Pinot Noir: Central Otago (near Queenstown) and Martinborough produce
complex, world-class reds.
Wine Trails: Most regions have "Cellar Doors" where you can taste and buy
direct from the vineyard, often with lunch.
Kiwis take their coffee very seriously. You won't find much generic filter coffee here.
The Flat White: Invented here (arguably!), it's a double shot of espresso
with micro-foamed milk. Smooth and velvety.
Cafe Culture: Nearly every town has excellent independent cafes serving
high-quality brunch and coffee.
Dining out in NZ is generally informal. "Smart casual" is the standard dress code even for nice restaurants. Children are welcome almost everywhere.
Tipping is not required or expected in New Zealand. Service staff are paid a livable wage. However, if the service was exceptional, a tip of 10% is appreciated but entirely optional.
Tap water is safe to drink everywhere in New Zealand. Restaurants will always provide free tap water on request.
Explore food tours and wine tasting experiences.