Let’s talk about eating in New Zealand, along with the best food and restaurants I tried on both the South and North Islands during my two weeks in this amazing country. While many people don’t think of New Zealand as the first destination when it comes to food, believe me, it offers dining options for everyone.

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Eating in New Zealand: Unique Foods and Restaurants

New Zealand is not only renowned for its natural wonders but also for its fresh, diverse, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of hearty meals, fresh seafood, or innovative fusion dishes, this country has it all. In this guide, I will share the key highlights of eating in New Zealand, from traditional dishes to some of my favorite restaurants and meals experienced during my 5 days on the North Island and 10 days on the South Island. One thing I loved about eating in New Zealand is the variety – the Kiwi food always features a wide range of cuisines, with strong Asian and European influences.

Traditional dishes to try in New Zealand: Checklist

One of the best things about eating in New Zealand is the freshness of the ingredients. The country’s fertile lands, clean waters, and sustainable farming practices ensure high-quality dairy and meat. Here’s the ultimate checklist of the most popular local dishes that you shouldn’t miss on any New Zealand itinerary:

• Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: A must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth, this vanilla ice cream is mixed with crunchy honeycomb toffee pieces, making it a beloved New Zealand dessert.
• Whitebait: Tiny, translucent fish with a delicate flavor, often served in fritters. This dish is particularly popular on the South Island.
• Meat Pie: While slightly different from American or British versions, New Zealand Meat Pie is filled with savory meats and gravy. You can find these pies in bakeries across the country.
• Hangi Meals: A traditional Maori method of cooking where food is steamed in an underground pit known as an earth oven. The slow-cooked meat, vegetables, and kumara (sweet potatoes) take on a smoky flavor. You can experience this authentic meal in Maori villages across New Zealand.
• Pavlova Cake: A meringue-based dessert with a crispy outer shell and soft, marshmallow-like interior, usually topped with fresh fruit and cream. It’s especially popular in New Zealand during Christmas celebrations.
• Southland Cheese Rolls: A regional specialty from the South Island, these are slices of bread rolled up with a cheesy filling and toasted to perfection. A favorite comfort snack in the country.
• L&P (Lemon & Paeroa): A uniquely New Zealand lemon-flavored soft drink, named after the town of Paeroa where it was first created.
• Anzac Biscuits: Traditional New Zealand cookies made from oats, coconut, and golden syrup, often found in cafes and supermarkets. These biscuits have historical significance, as they were originally baked for soldiers during World War I.
• Kiwi Burgers: New Zealand’s version on the classic American-style hamburger, often featuring unique toppings.
• Fish and Chips: This iconic British dish is just as popular in New Zealand, as it is in Ireland.

Cool Restaurants and Foods in New Zealand

Here’s the list of restaurants and foods I experienced during my 2 weeks in New Zealand, covering both the South and North Islands. You can also check them out on the map at the end of this post. Note that this post is not sponsored – it simply includes all the places I enjoyed in New Zealand.

1. DKs Burger Bar 

Address: 72 Broadway, Matamata 3400 New Zealand

Located in Matamata, a small town not far from Hobbiton, DK’s burger is one of those hidden gems you just can’t miss while in New Zealand. I would probably rate this burger as highly as the famous Fergburger! What sets DK’s burger apart is the way it melts in your mouth. And just when you think it can’t get any better… you try their fries … Plus, they also offer a veggie burger, which is just as mouthwatering as the regular one.

2. Atticus Finch

Address: Eat Street, 1106 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua 3010 New Zealand

We had such a great lunch experience at Atticus Finch. It felt like a perfect blend of high cuisine and a casual lunch spot. Every dish was unique, and each bite was an experience for the taste buds. The atmosphere of the restaurant was relaxed and comfortable, making the whole meal an incredibly enjoyable and satisfying experience.

3. Blue Kanu

Address: 16 Church Street, Queenstown 9300 New Zealand

Blue Kanu is an absolute must-try dining experience in New Zealand. The restaurant focuses on healthy, fresh, and exotic Asian cuisine with a Pacific influence. If I had to choose one word to describe Blue Kanu, it would be “intriguing.” While you might think you know what to expect, the dishes surprise you in the best way. On top of that, the interior design is so nice – everything, from the vibrant colors and lighting to the live performances, creates a truly unique and memorable atmosphere.

4. Fisherman’s Wharf Lyttelton

Address: 39 Norwich Quay Lyttelton, Christchurch New Zealand

Fisherman’s Wharf Lyttelton is all about simplicity. It’s fresh, and it offers good-quality food. If you’re looking for a straightforward lunch or dinner without overthinking, then FW is the place to be.

5. Fat Pipi Pizza

Address: 89 Revell Street, Hokitika 7810 New Zealand

It was such a unique experience trying a whitebait pizza at Fat Pipi Pizza! It’s something different that you can’t find at just any pizza place around the world. Of course, it also depends on how you like your crust – thick or thin. For me, it was perfectly thin and crispy, with a distinct and flavorful taste.

6. Stonyridge Vineyard

Address: 80 Onetangi Rd, Onetangi, Auckland, Waiheke Island New Zealand

Head to Waiheke Island to try some of the best wine in New Zealand – it’s an island full of wineries! Since I only had one day there, I managed to visit three wineries, which was plenty for me. My favorite was Stonyridge Vineyard. Along with fantastic wine paired with a delicious cheese plate, it offered the most gorgeous views. Sometimes, all you need is a bit of peace and quiet… and a glass of wine.

7. Sheffield

Address: 51 Main West Road, Sheffield 7500 New Zealand

Pie lovers, this one’s for you! Sheffield is a traditional New Zealand bakery and cafe, specializing not only in world-famous Sheffield Pies, but also on homemade bakery, including biscuits, cakes, filled rolls, and fresh bread. They also offer a selection of low-gluten products.

8. Nest Kitchen + Bar

Address: 139 Fernhill Rd Kamana Lakehouse, Queenstown 9300 New Zealand

Nest Kitchen + Bar is known for its modern takes on classic dishes, as well as its beautiful location offering the highest alfresco dining in Queenstown. If you enjoy sharing food but prefer not to eat from other people’s plates (or have them eat from yours), then you have to try the tapas at Nest Kitchen + Bar. In addition to the delicious small plates, you can enjoy stunning views over Lake Wakatipu – it was truly a magical dining experience.

9. Bespoke Kitchen

Address: 9 Isle Street, Queenstown 9300 New Zealand

Bespoke Kitchen is another fantastic place for eating in New Zealand, especially for fans of healthy food. This cafe has won New Zealand’s Best Cafe award, thanks to its thoughtfully crafted menu focused on wholesome ingredients without compromising on flavor. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys delicious food with a healthy twist. If you don’t believe that healthy food can be satisfying, Bespoke Kitchen is here to prove you wrong!

10. Fergburger

Address: 42 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300 New Zealand

Fergburger is one of the most famous foods to try in New Zealand. As a foodie, I must admit it’s hard to surprise me when it comes to burgers. However, Fergburger is THE burger. I’m very particular about the quality of ingredients, and the first thing I noticed about Fergburger was its exceptional ingredients.

Map of the coolest places for eating in New Zealand

Unique tours to try best foods in New Zealand:

If you’re a foodie looking to explore New Zealand’s culinary delights, there are several unique tours that will take you on an unforgettable gastronomic journey with a local guide:

• Waipara Wine Trail Afternoon Tour from Christchurch (check availability)
• Gourmet Food and Wine Tour – Cave Tour, Cheese, Lunch (check availability)
• Flavours of our City Food Walk (check availability)
• Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour (check availability)
• Wine on Waiheke full days scenic route and wine tasting (check availability)
• Cultural Experience & Seasonal Māori Cuisine at Te Pā Tū (check availability)
• Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown (check availability)

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For more tips check my Pinterest board Australia + New Zealand.

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