Must-try food experiences in New Zealand

New Zealand, is not just a land of stunning landscapes and rich culture but also a haven for food lovers. Imagine a day of enjoying a traditional Māori meal, sampling world-class wines from renowned vineyards, and feasting on the freshest seafood — surrounded by stunning landscapes that make every bite a true feast for the senses. Whether you are a foodie at heart or just love to connect with new cultures, New Zealand has something special for every craving. Here’s your ultimate guide to six ‘must do’ culinary adventures to embark on.

Experience a Traditional Māori Hāngī
Few experiences rival sharing a feast cooked in a traditional Maori hāngī (earth oven), a centuries-old cooking method perfect for feeding a crowd and bringing a community together. Māori traditionally cooked in underground steam ovens called ‘hāngī', a tasty and authentic method of cooking which can be enjoyed at restaurants and takeaways across Aotearoa. The feast offers an exquisite selection of juicy meats, Kūmaras (sweet potatoes), and seasonal greens, all slow-cooked underground in a pit oven (umu), it's a must-try meal for a true taste of New Zealand’s cultural and culinary heritage.

Unique Dining Experience
Get ready for a dining experience at Orbit, Auckland's revolving restaurant perched high in the iconic Sky Tower. This indoor venue offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond, making it a perfect spot for any occasion, rain or shine. The restaurant rotates once every hour, allowing you to raise a toast to the stunning landscapes while enjoying a delectable menu that showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients – delivering a cozy ambiance that ensures that every moment here is extraordinary! The seafood platter, lamb, Pavlova, and authentic Kiwi wines are a must-try while there.

Bluff Oyster and Food Festival
Get ready to shuck and savour at the Bluff Oyster Festival, held every year in May on the third Saturday. With the pleasant autumn weather setting the stage, get ready for exciting oyster-opening competitions, and, of course, a chance to enjoy the freshest oysters around.


Savor the warmth and camaraderie over a ‘cup’ in Wellington

If a relaxed coffee catch-up is more your cup of tea, Wellington’s vibrant café scene is bucket-list worthy. This culture has been brewing since the 1950s, beginning with quaint milk bars and trendy coffee houses that attracted poets, artists, and thinkers looking to gather over a steaming cup. Today, this coffee culture is deeply embedded in the local community, with weekends often reserved for catching up over a ‘cup’ in a setting that is welcoming and relaxed, making it the perfect excuse to socialize and strike conversations with friendly locals on your vacation.

Raise a Glass to Award-Winning Wines in Marlborough
Treat your taste buds in Marlborough, New Zealand’s ultimate wine paradise! Famous for its crisp Sauvignon Blanc, this region boasts stunning views of rolling vineyards and sparkling waterways. Join the Taste Marlborough Wine Tour in Blenheim, a good 2 hrs from Canterbury, for a fun day of wine tasting at some of the best local wineries, where you get to sample award-winning wines straight from the source.

Gourmet Burgers
Known as the hotspot in Queenstown, no foodie adventure can be complete without a meal at Fergburger which has been delighting locals and visitors alike for over 20 years with its famous gourmet burgers. For vegetarians, their Tofu burger is a must-try.

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