New Zealand offers dramatic landscapes ranging from volcanic peaks to pristine fjords, vibrant Maori culture, and world-class adventure activities. From the cosmopolitan cities of Auckland and Wellington to the stunning natural wonders of Milford Sound and Mount Cook, this island nation delivers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
New Zealand cuisine is shaped by its Pacific location, pastoral farming heritage, and strong Maori food traditions. The country is renowned for world-class lamb, grass-fed beef, fresh seafood (including Bluff oysters, green-lipped mussels, and crayfish), and distinctive dairy products. A cafe culture considered among the world's finest drives excellent coffee and brunch nationwide. Modern New Zealand cuisine fuses local ingredients with Pacific Rim influences from the country's diverse immigrant communities.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define New Zealand.
Bluff Oysters
The world's most celebrated oysters, grown in the cold waters off Bluff at the southern tip of New Zealand. Available May to August, they are prized for their creamy, mineral-rich flavour. Found at fish markets and seafood restaurants nationwide during season.
Where to try: Fishmongers and seafood restaurants nationwide, May-August season
Price: NZD $25-45 for a dozen
Green-Lipped Mussels
New Zealand's iconic large green-shelled mussels are farmed in Marlborough Sounds and Nelson, producing some of the world's most flavourful shellfish. Steamed with white wine and cream, or grilled with herb butter, they are a New Zealand staple.
Where to try: Any New Zealand seafood restaurant or supermarket fish counter
Price: NZD $15-25 (restaurant), NZD $6 (supermarket)
Whitebait Fritters
A seasonal New Zealand delicacy made from tiny juvenile fish (inanga) bound in egg batter and pan-fried. Whitebait season is August to November and genuine whitebait fritters should contain 100% fish with minimal batter.
Where to try: West Coast cafes, Westland region, South Island seafood restaurants during season
Price: NZD $18-35
Hangi
Traditional Maori earth oven cooking where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked over heated rocks in a pit. The smoky, earthy flavour is unique. Available at cultural experiences in Rotorua and at some Maori-owned restaurants nationwide.
Where to try: Mitai Maori Village, Te Puia Rotorua, Tamaki Maori Village
Price: NZD $55-110 (as part of cultural experience)
Rack of New Zealand Lamb
New Zealand produces the world's finest lamb from merino and romney sheep raised on lush natural pastures. A rack of Central Otago or Canterbury lamb at a quality restaurant showcases the clean, sweet flavour that has made New Zealand lamb globally prized.
Where to try: Any quality New Zealand restaurant, especially in the South Island
Price: NZD $38-65
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Rata Dining
Celebrity chef Josh Emett's flagship restaurant showcasing the best of Central Otago produce. Sophisticated menu featuring local lamb, venison, and seafood with creative modern techniques in elegant lakefront setting.
43 Ballarat Street, Queenstown 9300
Fergburger
Queenstown's legendary burger joint serving massive gourmet burgers with creative toppings. Cult following ensures queues but burgers are worth the wait. Open late for post-adventure fuel.
42 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300
Hell Pizza (Multiple Locations)
New Zealand's iconic pizza chain with irreverent branding and quality ingredients. Creative toppings, vegan options, and late-night delivery make it backpacker favorite.
Various locations nationwide
Hare Krishna Food for Life (Multiple Cities)
Free vegetarian meals served in parks across New Zealand cities, funded by donations. Delicious Indian curries, rice, and desserts creating community atmosphere.
Various park locations
Floriditas Wellington
Iconic Wellington cafe on Cuba Street serving exceptional coffee, brunches, and all-day dining. Buzzing atmosphere and consistently excellent food make it local institution.
161 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door
Award-winning restaurant at renowned Central Otago winery featuring locally sourced ingredients, house-made charcuterie, and estate wines. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular mountain and vineyard views.
10 Lake Hayes Road, Queenstown 9371
Ortega Fish Shack Wellington
Casual seafood restaurant celebrating Pacific Rim flavors and sustainable fishing. Fresh daily catches, oysters, and creative fish dishes in relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
16 Majoribanks Street, Mount Victoria, Wellington 6011
Velvet Burger Auckland
Award-winning burger joint serving creative combinations with quality ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan options alongside beef and chicken burgers in hip setting.
489 New North Road, Kingsland, Auckland 1021
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Cafe
Mojo Coffee (Multiple Locations)
Wellington's premier coffee roaster with cafes serving single-origin brews and excellent food. Serious coffee culture meets friendly service.
Multiple locations Wellington
Vudu Cafe Queenstown
Beloved Queenstown breakfast and brunch spot with creative dishes, excellent coffee, and relaxed vibe. Often queues but worth the wait.
23 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300
Capers Cafe Christchurch
Friendly neighborhood cafe serving excellent coffee, fresh baking, and hearty lunch options. Popular with locals for relaxed atmosphere and consistent quality.
185 High Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011
C1 Espresso Christchurch
Innovative cafe in converted post office with pneumatic tube food delivery system. Creative menu from breakfast through dinner in unique steampunk setting.
185 High Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011
The Store Christchurch
Industrial-chic cafe and deli in heritage building serving excellent brunch, fresh baking, and local products. Popular weekend destination.
65 Kilmore Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013
Hummingbird Eatery Auckland
Charming neighborhood cafe in Parnell serving exceptional coffee, fresh seasonal food, and house-baked goods. Intimate space with loyal local following.
283 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052
The Blue Duck Cafe Rotorua
Popular lakefront cafe serving generous portions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Local ingredients, friendly service, and beautiful Lake Rotorua views.
1155 Tutanekai Street, Rotorua 3010
Prefab Cafe Wellington
Tiny shipping container cafe near waterfront with outstanding coffee and creative cabinet food. Proof that great things come in small packages.
14 Jessie Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Allpress Espresso Auckland
Flagship cafe and roastery in Ponsonby serving exceptional coffee and hearty all-day breakfast. Industrial warehouse setting with open roasting area.
8 Drake Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1011
The Botanist Rotorua
Garden cafe in Government Gardens serving fresh seasonal food and specialty coffee. Beautiful setting with outdoor seating among botanical gardens.
Hinemoa Street, Rotorua 3010
Flight Coffee Wellington
Award-winning specialty coffee roaster with Hangar cafe serving meticulously prepared coffee and simple food. Serious about coffee quality.
119 Dixon Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Seafood
Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill Wellington
Premium seafood restaurant with spectacular waterfront location. Fresh New Zealand seafood, oysters, and international catches prepared with precision. Extensive wine list featuring boutique producers.
1 Post Office Square, Wellington Waterfront, Wellington 6011
Bluff Oysters (Seasonal)
Legendary oysters from Foveaux Strait available March-August. Served fresh from roadside stands and seafood shops, especially in Southland region.
Southern South Island
Fleur's Place Moeraki
Iconic seafood restaurant in converted fishing shack on Moeraki wharf. Ultra-fresh local catch prepared simply, celebrating ocean-to-plate dining with spectacular coastal views.
169 Haven Street, Moeraki 9482
Captains Restaurant Kaikoura
Waterfront seafood restaurant showcasing Kaikoura's famous crayfish and fresh catches. Casual atmosphere with ocean views and emphasis on sustainable local seafood.
29 Avoca Street, Kaikoura 7300
Contemporary New Zealand
Clooney Restaurant Auckland
Intimate fine dining in heritage villa showcasing seasonal New Zealand produce. Award-winning chef creates refined dishes with emphasis on local suppliers and sustainable practices.
33 Sale Street, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1011
The Tasting Room Taupo
Refined dining in Taupo featuring seasonal menus and extensive local wine list. Lake views, professional service, and creative dishes using regional ingredients.
2 Tongariro Street, Taupo 3330
Fish & Chips
Kiwi Fish & Chips
Classic takeaway fish and chips found in every New Zealand town. Blue cod or snapper, crispy fries, and tomato sauce wrapped in paper.
Various locations nationwide
Fish Supply Christchurch
Modern fish and chip shop using sustainable seafood and serving generous portions. Beer-battered fish, crispy fries, and waterfront location.
5 Shands Road, Ferrymead, Christchurch 8023
Italian
Gusto at the Grand Wellington
Classic Italian trattoria in heritage hotel serving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and Italian wines. Warm atmosphere and consistent quality.
69 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Amano Auckland
Bustling Italian bakery and restaurant in Britomart precinct. House-baked breads, fresh pasta, wood-fired dishes, and vibrant atmosphere from breakfast through dinner.
66-68 Tyler Street, Britomart, Auckland 1010
Mexican
Lucky Taco Wellington
Casual taco joint serving authentic Mexican street food and margaritas. Bright decor, friendly vibe, and great value in Cuba Quarter.
42 Ghuznee Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Taco Medic Queenstown
Late-night taco spot serving generous portions after adventure-filled days. Perfect post-ski or post-activity fuel with Mexican beers.
24 Rees Street, Queenstown 9300
Modern New Zealand
The Monday Room Christchurch
Stylish eatery in Christchurch serving seasonal menus with local ingredients. Industrial-chic decor, craft cocktails, and sharing plates perfect for groups.
62 Kilmore Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011
Good Home Napier
Casual eatery in art deco Napier focusing on locally sourced produce and Hawke's Bay wines. Relaxed atmosphere, seasonal menu, and excellent value.
157 Tennyson Street, Napier South, Napier 4110
Steakhouse
Botswana Butchery Queenstown
Upscale steakhouse in historic waterfront building featuring premium cuts, fresh seafood, and extensive wine list. Sophisticated colonial-inspired decor and lakefront location.
17 Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300
Lone Star (Multiple Locations)
Family-friendly chain serving American-style ribs, steaks, and burgers. Generous portions, casual atmosphere, and consistent quality nationwide.
Various locations nationwide
American
Burger Wisconsin Rotorua
Classic American diner serving burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes. Retro decor, generous portions, and family-friendly atmosphere.
1181 Eruera Street, Rotorua 3010
Bakery
Ferg Baker Queenstown
Sister bakery to Fergburger serving fresh baked goods, pies, and sandwiches. Famous for giant fruit pies perfect for sharing after adventures.
42 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300
Bistro
Little Blackwood Christchurch
Neighborhood bistro serving refined comfort food and natural wines. Cozy atmosphere, open kitchen, and seasonal menu highlighting Canterbury producers.
1 Fitzgerald Avenue, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011
Contemporary Buffet
Stratosfare Restaurant Queenstown
Spectacular buffet restaurant atop Skyline Gondola with panoramic Queenstown views. International and local dishes, live cooking stations, and unforgettable setting at 450m altitude.
Brecon Street, Queenstown 9300
Contemporary Cafe
Atticus Finch Wellington
All-day dining destination in Cuba Quarter serving brunch favorites, seasonal dinners, and craft cocktails. Stylish interior and consistently excellent food.
117 Cuba Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
Contemporary Deli
Cure Dunedin
House-cured meats, artisan cheeses, and seasonal dishes in hip Dunedin setting. Charcuterie boards, sharing plates, and craft beers attract food-loving crowds.
217 Stuart Street, Dunedin Central, Dunedin 9016
Contemporary Fine Dining
The Grove Auckland
Auckland's most awarded restaurant offering innovative tasting menus in intimate setting. Chef Ben Bayly creates dishes celebrating New Zealand ingredients with international techniques.
53 College Hill, Freemans Bay, Auckland 1011
Dessert
Ice Cream from Tip Top
New Zealand's favorite ice cream brand available nationwide. Classic flavors like Hokey Pokey (honeycomb) and Goody Goody Gum Drops are must-tries.
Supermarkets and dairies nationwide
European
Riverside Kitchen Christchurch
Elegant riverside dining featuring seasonal menus, extensive wine list, and refined service. Beautiful setting in historic building with outdoor terrace overlooking the Avon River.
Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013
Farm
Terrôir Restaurant Napier
Hawke's Bay's premier farm-to-table restaurant showcasing regional produce and wines. Chef-owner creates innovative dishes celebrating local artisans and growers in intimate art deco setting.
407 Hastings Street, Napier South, Napier 4110
Food Court
Little High Eatery Christchurch
Innovative food court concept with rotating selection of quality vendors. Asian, Mexican, burgers, and more in trendy shared dining space.
255 St Asaph Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8011
Fusion
Madam Woo Queenstown
Fast-casual Asian eatery serving Malaysian-inspired hawker food. Laksa, dumplings, and rice dishes in vibrant setting at reasonable Queenstown prices.
5 The Mall, Queenstown 9300
Gourmet Burgers
BurgerFuel (Multiple Locations)
New Zealand burger chain known for fresh ingredients, unique combinations, and eco-friendly practices. Extensive menu including vegan options.
Various locations nationwide
Indian
Cassia Auckland
Contemporary Indian restaurant reinventing classics with New Zealand ingredients. Vibrant flavors, creative cocktails, and stylish setting in Sky City precinct.
5 Fort Lane, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Kiwi Classic
Meat Pie from Bakery
Quintessential Kiwi snack found in every bakery. Mince, steak and cheese, or specialty fillings in flaky pastry. Perfect travel food.
Bakeries nationwide
Kiwi Delicacy
Whitebait Fritters
Seasonal delicacy (August-November) of tiny fish in egg fritters. Found at cafes and roadside stalls on West Coast and sold at premium prices.
West Coast primarily
Kiwi Snacks
L&P and Pineapple Lump Combo
Classic New Zealand combination - Lemon & Paeroa soft drink with Pineapple Lump chocolates. Found in every dairy (corner store).
Dairies and supermarkets nationwide
Maori Traditional
Hangi Traditional Maori
Traditional earth oven cooking found at Maori cultural experiences. Meat and vegetables slow-cooked underground with hot stones for unique smoky flavor.
Various cultural centers, especially Rotorua
Mediterranean
Pescatore at The George
Christchurch's elegant Mediterranean restaurant within boutique hotel. Seasonal menus, award-winning wine list, and impeccable service in sophisticated surroundings.
50 Park Terrace, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013
New Zealand Gastropub
Depot Eatery Auckland
Celebrity chef Al Brown's bustling eatery showcasing Kiwi classics and fresh seafood. Communal tables, oyster bar, and relaxed vibe in downtown Auckland.
86 Federal Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010
Pies
Ponsonby Pies Auckland
Artisan pie shop creating gourmet versions of Kiwi classic. Sweet and savory options using quality ingredients and traditional methods.
274 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011
Rotisserie
Wishbone Rotisserie Chicken Wellington
Simple concept executed perfectly - free-range rotisserie chicken with delicious sides. Healthy fast-casual option with takeaway focus.
23 Kent Terrace, Mount Victoria, Wellington 6011
Various
Food Trucks at Events
Gourmet food trucks at markets, events, and festivals offering everything from tacos to Thai curries. Quality street food in vibrant settings.
Various events and markets
Various Local
Farmers Markets (Nationwide)
Weekend markets offering fresh produce, artisan foods, hot meals, and local specialties. Great for sampling regional products and meeting producers.
Various locations nationwide
Vegan
Cosmic Corner Christchurch
Popular vegan and vegetarian cafe serving organic, plant-based meals. Smoothie bowls, burgers, and cabinet food in bright, welcoming space.
95 Victoria Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013
Food tours & tastings in New Zealand
Eat your way through New Zealand with a guide.
Browse food experiences in New ZealandWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
New Zealand Meat Pie
The quintessential Kiwi street food — a flaky pastry pie filled with mince, steak and cheese, butter chicken, or lamb and mushroom. Found at every bakery and dairy (convenience store) for NZD $5-8.
Find it at: Bakeries and dairies nationwide
Fish and Chips
Fresh snapper or blue cod in a crispy batter with thick chips, wrapped in paper with salt and vinegar, is New Zealand's most beloved takeaway. Coastal towns have exceptional chippies using the day's freshest catch.
Find it at: Fish and chip shops nationwide, especially at beach towns
Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
New Zealand's most beloved ice cream flavour — vanilla with small pieces of honeycomb toffee — is available at dairies, supermarkets, and ice cream shops nationwide.
Find it at: Dairies, supermarkets, ice cream parlours nationwide
Pavlova
New Zealand and Australia both claim the pavlova, but Kiwis are passionate about their claim to this meringue dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh kiwifruit.
Find it at: Cafes and bakeries nationwide
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Otago Farmers Market
Dunedin's weekly Saturday market at the railway station is New Zealand's finest producers-only market with over 80 vendors. Fresh oysters, artisan cheese, organic vegetables, and local breads.
Hours: Saturday 8AM-12:30PM
Harbourside Market Wellington
Wellington's largest Sunday market on Cobham Drive beside the waterfront with fresh produce, food stalls, and artisan goods. Strong Vietnamese, Middle Eastern, and Pacific food vendor presence.
Hours: Sunday 7:30AM-1PM
Riccarton Sunday Market, Christchurch
Christchurch's massive Sunday market at Riccarton Racecourse with hundreds of stalls covering produce, food, vintage goods, and crafts. New Zealand's largest outdoor market.
Hours: Sunday 9AM-2PM
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Lunch is typically the cheaper meal — many restaurants offer lunch menus at 20-30% less than dinner prices.
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand — service workers are paid minimum wage and do not depend on gratuities.
BYOB (bring your own bottle) is widely accepted at mid-range restaurants. Look for 'BYO' on restaurant signage.
Wellington is considered New Zealand's culinary capital with more restaurants per capita than New York City.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | NZD $10-20/meal | Bakery pie, fish and chips, or Indian takeaway |
| Mid-range | NZD $25-50/meal | Sit-down cafe lunch or casual restaurant dinner |
| Upscale | NZD $80-180+/meal | Fine dining restaurant with wine |