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New Zealand food focuses on agricultural produce as well as seafood. The cuisine is a melting pot of different cultures coming together and resulting in some marvellous and hearty food. If you’re in New Zealand and get the chance to visit a Maori site, do try the Hangi, food cooked in an earth oven.
Food in New Zealand is not limited to any one particular cuisine and eating out options are aplenty. One thing is for sure. You won’t go hungry. Also, do remember to check the SOTC website for offers and deals on New Zealand holiday packages .
For those looking for New Zealand restaurants, here’s a list of some of the places to eat in New Zealand by city.
Huge Asian influences result in some exciting convergence when it comes to restaurants. For modern Japanese food, try Masu’s black cod or crayfish miso tacos. If you’re looking for Lebanese, then look no further than Gemmayze Street for interesting combinations such as duck with red cabbage, fig and onion. Indian food finds favour in Satya Chai Lounge while Depot Eatery is one of the New Zealand restaurants bringing fresh seasonal produce and deliciousness like lamb ribs with skordalia.
The restaurant scene in Queenstown is diverse and fulfilling. If you’re looking for refined flavours produced by award-winning chefs, look no further than Rata, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Josh Emett. For a bar vibe, head to Ivy & Lola’s located on the wharf and although seafood is a specialty, the slow roast beef is a favourite of many. But for cheap and filling food, Fergburger is your best bet, especially if you’re wondering what to eat in New Zealand.
The capital has its share of craft breweries and fine dining establishments that are simply world class. Try Whitebait if you want to sit by the waterfront and nibble on the wild jack mackerel with leek or Charley Noble located in a heritage building serving the freshest oysters and clams as well as kingfish and salmon. Vegetarians need not be dismayed if they’re wondering where to eat in New Zealand because The Botanist is your destination with its sake and miso aubergine and pan fried bok choy satay.
The dining scene in Hamilton is relatively new but its brimming with flavour, bringing casual and fine dining to hungry patrons. Chicago Style Pizza is simple, low-key but always packed and the delicious pizza is proof enough. An interesting restaurant is The Burnt Tongue, where you can get soup – not your plain old soup but some that are elevated with the addition of several elements. Some exclusive options include Ancaster Mill and Nique.
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the sheer variety of cuisines that are available in Christchurch. There’s Indian, vegetarian, fine-dining European to name just a few. The exotically named King of Snake serves Asian, Thai and Chinese and lives up to its name with its crispy pressed duck while Dimitri’s Greek Food is where you need to go for some amazing souvlaki.
