If you’re heading to New Zealand, you’ll want to dig into the local food scene. From traditional Maori dishes to unique street food finds, this country has a lot to offer. I’m a foodie at heart, and when I visited, I made sure to explore as many of the top eats as I could. Here are my favorite New Zealand dishes and the best places to try them.
Hangi: The Traditional Maori Feast
Hangi is as traditional as it gets in New Zealand. It’s a slow-cooked meal using heated rocks buried in the ground. You’ll often find meat, fish, kumara (sweet potatoes), and vegetables all wrapped together. The result is a smoky, tender feast that melts in your mouth.
For an authentic Hangi experience, head to Rotorua. You’ll find cultural centers like Tamaki Maori Village and Te Puia offering Hangi meals. It’s often an evening event, paired with Maori performances and storytelling!
Fish and Chips
If you’re near the coast, don’t pass up on some fresh fish and chips. You’ll find this British-born favorite in almost every town, but New Zealanders know how to do it right.
One of the best places I found was Mt. Vic Chippery in Wellington. Their fish is fresh and you can choose between different types. The chips are crispy and golden. Perfect for a takeaway meal by the waterfront.
Another great option is Erik’s Fish and Chips in Queenstown. They even offer gluten-free options!
Pavlova: The Dessert Debate
New Zealanders will tell you they invented the Pavlova, and whether that’s true or not, it is one of the country’s most loved desserts. It’s a meringue-based cake, crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and topped with cream and fresh fruits.
For a taste of this dessert, check out Strawberry Fare in Christchurch. Their pavlova is some of the best around. If you’re in Auckland, try The Sugar Club up the Sky Tower for a fancier take on this classic.
Pies
Kiwis are obsessed with pies. They’re not your sweet fruit pies like in the US. These are savory, hand-held snacks filled with everything from steak to chicken and cheese. It’s common to grab one on the go or for a quick lunch.
One of my favorite spots was Fergbaker in Queenstown. Known for their unbeatable pies, they’re also part of the famous Fergburger chain. Another good spot is The Clareville Bakery in Carterton. Their award-winning pies draw crowds from all over!
Top Pie Flavors to Try
- Steak and Cheese
- Minced Beef
- Chicken and Mushroom
- Venison
Green-Lipped Mussels
New Zealand is home to the famous green-lipped mussels. They’re bigger than typical mussels and packed with flavor. Even better, they’re healthy and full of nutrients.
To try some, head to The Mussel Pot in Havelock, which is known as the “green-lipped mussel capital of the world.” They serve them in a variety of ways: steamed, in chowder, or with garlic butter. Absolutely delicious.
Lamb
There are more sheep than people in New Zealand, so naturally, lamb is a must-try! It’s served at restaurants all over the country, and thanks to New Zealand’s pastures, the quality is top-notch.
For a fine dining experience, visit Logan Brown in Wellington. Their lamb dishes are mouthwatering. Another favorite spot is Botswana Butchery in Queenstown. Both places will give you a taste of why New Zealand lamb is so famous.
Seafood
Being an island nation, it’s no surprise that New Zealand has amazing seafood. You can’t go wrong with fresh catches like snapper, crayfish, and salmon. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
One place I loved was Nin’s Bin in Kaikoura. This roadside shack is famous for its crayfish (also known as lobster). Sit by the beach and enjoy it freshly cooked. If you’re near Auckland, head to Depot Eatery for oysters and clams. Their seafood is always fresh and top-quality.
Whitebait Fritters
Whitebait fritters are a New Zealand specialty. They’re small fish, usually caught on the South Island, mixed with eggs and lightly fried into fritters. It’s a simple dish, but locals swear by it.
Head to Curly Tree Whitebait near Haast on the West Coast for a taste of this must-try delicacy.
Kumara Chips
Kumara (sweet potato) is a staple from Maori cuisine, but you’ll find it everywhere in New Zealand. One of the most popular ways kumara is served is as chips: deep-fried and crispy.
Wellington’s Sweet Mother’s Kitchen does excellent kumara fries. Pair them with one of their spicy sauces for an extra kick. If you’re in Auckland, try the ones at Burger Burger—they’re addictive!
L&P Soda
If you need something to wash down all that delicious food, grab a bottle of L&P. Lemon & Paeroa (L&P) is a sweet, lemony soda unique to New Zealand. It’s refreshing and pairs well with local snacks!
You can find it in any corner store, but if you want the original experience, stop by the town of Paeroa where it all started. There’s even a giant L&P bottle in the middle of town for that perfect photo op!
Coffee Culture
New Zealanders take their coffee very seriously. The flat white—a steamed milk coffee—is arguably the most popular option, but cafes all over the country serve up excellent espresso-based drinks.
For the best flat white in Wellington, hit up Flight Coffee Hangar. In Auckland, try Orphans Kitchen. If you’re in Christchurch, Black Betty serves an excellent brew.
Street Food Markets
If you’re a fan of street food, New Zealand doesn’t disappoint. From night markets to weekend food stalls, there’s always something good cooking.
Popular Markets to Check Out
- Auckland Night Markets: A collection of pop-up locations all around the city with everything from dumplings to sweets.
- Wellington’s Harbourside Market: A must-go on Sundays for everything fresh and local.
- Christchurch Farmers’ Market: Held every Saturday in the leafy Riccarton Bush, this is foodie heaven.
Where to Go for a Food Road Trip
If you want to make a foodie road trip out of it, start in Auckland and head down to Queenstown. Along the way, stop by Hawke’s Bay for wines, Wellington for its coffee and craft beer, and Kaikoura for seafood. Your stomach will be very happy!
New Zealand’s food options are varied and delicious. Whether you’re grabbing a pie on the go or treating yourself to a traditional Hangi feast, there’s something for every taste and budget.
So when you’re planning your visit, make sure food is at the top of your list. Trust me: You won’t be disappointed!
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