With its unique gastronomy and a wide selection of wines and craft beers, it promises an adventure that will not disappoint. Embark on a culinary journey and discover the passion of top Kiwi chefs. Their culinary prowess has not only helped New Zealand earn the reputation of an international destination for discerning foodies but also ignited a love for food among Kiwis. The food here is not just fresh, diverse, and delicious, it's a testament to the dedication and love these chefs have for their craft.
As New Zealand-based Times travel writer Brian Ng rightly said, New Zealand is a top destination for dining, thanks to its “famous multiculturalism” and culinary influences. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or a food connoisseur, New Zealand’s range of flavours will surely delight you. But the abundance of fresh seafood, succulent lamb, and seasonal produce truly sets New Zealand apart. Each dish celebrates the land's richness and freshness, offering a vibrant and unique culinary experience. And some regions really take the cake when it comes to food. Explore some of the best places for foodies in New Zealand.
Airport Meet and Greet, transfer to hotel.
Central Auckland is a hub of urban delights set against beautiful coastal scenery. Known as 'the city of sails,' Auckland is home to waterfront restaurants, award-winning menus, and bustling food hubs. Discover the area on a walking food tour. You can find world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment in the city centre. Splurge on designer fashion, indulge in Pacific Rim cuisine overlooking the harbour, and discover buzzing waterfront precincts.
Just 40 minutes by ferry from Auckland, Waiheke Island is known as a wellspring of food, wine, and spectacular scenery. In landscape, lifestyle, and experience, it is a world away. Sample gourmet cheese, breads, and wines while you visit an olive oil farm and wineries.
Join laid-back locals Jane and Darren (your guides for the day) and discover the best of Waiheke's vineyards. Explore Te Motu Arai Roa, where you’ll learn about the cultural significance of Waiheke, our Polynesian roots and our past, present and future. Listen to the ancient stories of our people and get an insight into the world of Te Ao Māori.
Zealong is the only commercial tea estate in NZ producing 100% organic award-winning tea. Ideally located close to Hamilton, Zealong offers unique tours and high Tea.
Rotorua is well-known for its fascinating geothermal activity, Māori culture, hot springs and mud pools.
Experience the best of Māori culture with Māori villages, lively performances, ta moko tattoo experts, and delicious hāngī. The Māori hāngī is a traditional way of cooking food. Find out what a hāngī involves and where you can try one for yourself.
Napier, located in Hawke's Bay, has beautifully preserved 1930s architecture, which is the city's unique point of difference.
Craggy Range Restaurant is the culinary heart of the Giants Winery. The intimate, comfortable, and relaxed space is the perfect setting to enjoy Head Chef Casey McDonald's regionally inspired menu, which celebrates Hawke's Bay's elements and abundant produce.
Ever wondered what the difference is between Brie & Camembert? What wine is best for your favourite blue, or would you just love to know more about cheese? Then join me, Master of Cheese Juliet Harbutt, for a fascinating, fun and unmissable experience.
Guests start the day with a truffle hunt at Sacre Monte, warmed-up with hot chocolate and rum at the truffiere, a rundown on the history, varieties and harvesting of truffles, followed by hunting and foraging, topped-off with lunch back at The Manse for a four-course truffle lunch – black truffles in each course, truffle creme brûlée for dessert.
Or: Welcome to Farmhouse Kitchen, where you will get an authentic food experience. The Family-Run cooking school looks forward to welcoming you to our new custom-built kitchen, where you can take hands-on cooking classes.
The Silky Oak Chocolate Company is heaven on earth for Chocoholics! Visit Silky Oak Chocolates to tempt your tastebuds and learn more about the evolution of this delicious indulgence
Viist a Manuka Honey center. New Zealand's world-famous Mānuka honey has natural antibacterial properties. It’s used in a wide range of food and drinks, as well as in health products and skin care and is a favourite take-home souvenir.
Learn a thing or two about Wellington's food and drink scene. Sneak down Hannah's Laneway searching for secret foodie spots such as Fix & Fogg peanut butter, Wellington Chocolate Factory, and Goldings Free Dive bar.
Craft beers are a growing phenomenon in New Zealand, and microbreweries can be found nationwide, including in Wellington.
On New Zealand's South Island, Marlborough is the largest wine-growing region and home to the world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc. Take a wine tour or explore the Marlborough Sounds.
Relax and enjoy the stunning Marlborough Sounds with the exclusive afternoon Seafood Odyssea Cruise departing Picton. As you cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui, sample local seafood, such as salmon and Greenshell mussels, with Marlborough sauvignon blanc for the definitive wine/food match.
Jenny Caring, the food writer and creative energy of Lyttelton’s Ground Culinary Centre, guides tours and retreats. With foraging expert Peter Langlands, you are guided to the world of wild ingredients. From mushrooms to weeds, porcini to broom flowers, you’ll be surprised at what can easily be found and consumed.
Inner city Christchurch’s indoor market is a vibrant community of specialist stores, cafes, and fresh food markets, providing visitors with a classic food highlight year-round. Mingle with locals as they shop and enjoy a leisurely coffee with your newly acquired goodies in your tote.
Akaroa is renowned for its fine dining and farm-to-plate food culture, yet the grab-and-go-and-eat street food scene offers plenty for visitors on the move. French-inspired bakeries, waffles and a farmer's market.
Have a stop for a famous local Pie. The locals recommend that you try a salmon and bacon pie at the award-winning Fairlie Bakehouse.
Queenstown is world-famous for delicious food, fantastic wine, and epic nightlife. With over 150 bars, restaurants and cafés, there is something for everyone. Home to some of the best restaurants in New Zealand, fine dining in Queenstown will exceed your expectations.
Eat and drink like a local at the many unique eateries in the Queenstown area. Queenstown's busiest burger joint, Fergburger, is world-renowned for its creative, delicious gourmet burgers.
