New Zealand burst into the culinary scene with a fusion of local produce, innovation and flair. A multicultural country that blends flavours from all over the world. To blend in as a local, enjoy fish and chips with a side of tomato sauce or a mince and cheese pie is a popular choice.
Kiwi’s love to invite friends and family over for a barbecue. Don’t be surprised if you receive an invite too! Experience a traditional Maori Hangi, a process of cooking in a steamed pit with heated stones. Or are you more interested in wine? Whatever your preference, New Zealand has something for you.
When you think of New Zealand, you may only think of untouched nature, stunning scenic drives, Maori culture and friendly locals. However, New Zealand also has many culinary delights. New Zealanders love to be standing behind their Kiwi, (the name they give to their barbecue), all day long. New Zealand also has some of the world's best oysters, fine wines and unique Maori cuisine. Are you ready to go on a culinary journey through New Zealand?
From a cosy eatery to a luxury restaurant, New Zealanders are always ready to share a taste of New Zealand with you. They are not only proud of the beautiful sights in New Zealand, but also of their local delicacies. We have listed a number of them for you.
The pearl of the south is called the Bluff Oysters, but they are actually the best oysters in the oyster world. These oysters come from the town of Bluff, also known as the oldest European settlement and the departure point to Stewart Island. Oyster season is from March to August and the Bluff Oyster Festival takes place in May.
When you take a closer look at food in New Zealand, British influences can also be seen. Fish and chips are still a New Zealand delicacy. Visit one of the local fish shops and try the ‘real’ fish & chips! The fresh varieties of fish vary from Hapuku, Cod Terakhi, Roughy and Dory. Not a fan of eating fish? Then the breaded hot dog on a stick is a good option. To finish this dish, drink a ginger beer.
Like the Brits, New Zealanders love savoury pies. These warm handmade puff pastry tarts with meat and/or vegetable filling are found throughout the country. They are available for approximately $4.50 NZD, but just like fish and chips, only the ‘real’ ones are tasty. Award-winning pies can be found at places like The Famous Sheffield's Pie Shop, located approximately 45 minutes drive from Christchurch.
According to the locals, whitebait fritters are very tasty, even if it may not sound like it. Such a fritter is made on the barbecue with raw white fish and a beaten egg. This raw fish comes from the river and can only be caught for two months a year. A unique fish species, for which you pay approximately $70 NZD per kilo. Do you dare to try?
With over 14,000 kilometres of coastline, New Zealand is a haven for fresh and delicious seafood. Savour an assortment of local seafood ranging from lobster, crayfish, whitebait, Mt Cook Salmon, Green-lipped mussels, snapper and more.
In Maori ‘kai’ means food and ‘koura’ means crayfish. Yes, this town lives up to its name and has some of the best crayfish in the world. You can indulge in delicious and freshly caught crayfish from a local street van or in a restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
One of the most famous street vans to savour crayfish is ‘Nin Bins’. Owned and operated by a local family since 1977. Their menu is simple and affordable, serving crayfish and mussels. And with the unbelievable views, it is a true Kiwi experience. Are you ready to savour crayfish by the sea?
The Maori prepare their dishes in a traditional way. Have an authentic experience tasting local food cooked in a traditional Maori way in an earth oven - called a Hangi. A way for the community to come together, this method of cooking involves wrapping baskets of food in a damp cloth and burying them with fire-heated rocks in a pit. The earth traps the heat and steam, slow-cooking the food to perfection. It’s real food made love.
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