Savouring the Flavours of New Zealand: A Foodie’s Journey
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New Zealand is a country that truly has it all: stunning natural landscapes, friendly locals, and a thriving food scene. For foodies, New Zealand offers a unique opportunity to savor a diverse range of culinary delights, from fresh seafood to world-renowned wines. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through New Zealand's food scene, highlighting some of the must-try dishes and culinary experiences.
Seafood
New Zealand is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, which means that seafood is an integral part of the country's cuisine. Some of the most popular seafood dishes include fish and chips, paua (abalone), and green-lipped mussels. For a truly unique experience, head to Kaikoura on the South Island, where you can try crayfish (known as rock lobster in other parts of the world) caught fresh from the ocean.
We recommend 'Kaikoura Seafood BBQ Kiosk' for the best (and most affordable) crayfish. (55 Fyffe Quay, Kaikōura Peninsula)
Wine
New Zealand is known for producing some of the world's best wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. The country's wine regions are located primarily on the South Island, with Marlborough being the most famous. Take a wine tour to sample some of the best wines the country has to offer, and be sure to pair them with some of the local cheeses for the ultimate culinary experience.
We recommend visiting Māori-Owned Tiki Wine and Vineyards.
Meat
New Zealand is known for its high-quality meat, particularly lamb and venison. For a traditional New Zealand meal, try a roast lamb dinner with roasted vegetables and gravy. If you're feeling adventurous, head to a local restaurant and try some wild game, such as wild boar or possum.
If you're looking for a fun dining experience, we recommend checking out Oyster and Chop in Aukland – the lamb is incredible!
Maori Cuisine
The Maori are the Indigenous people of New Zealand, and their cuisine is an important part of the country's food scene. Some of the most popular Maori dishes include hangi (a traditional method of cooking food in an earth oven), kumara (sweet potato), and paua fritters (made with abalone). For a truly authentic Maori culinary experience, attend a hangi feast, which often includes traditional dances and performances.
If you're going to splurge on a fine dining experience on your trip, make sure it's Hiakai in Wellington. Hiakai began in 2016 by Chef Monique Fiso as a pop up series devoted to the exploration and development of Māori cooking techniques and ingredients, and since has stablished itself as a leading innovator in the New Zealand food scene.
Farm-to-Table
New Zealand has a strong farm-to-table culture, which means that many restaurants source their ingredients locally. This not only supports local farmers and producers, but also ensures that diners are getting the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. To experience farm-to-table dining at its finest, head to one of the many restaurants located in the countryside, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning scenery.
Depot Eatery has a reputation of being one of the most popular eateries in Aukland, and if you're going for breakfast – go early! Line-ups are common here.
New Zealand is a foodie's paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary delights that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. From fresh seafood and world-renowned wines to traditional Maori cuisine and farm-to-table dining, there's something for everyone in New Zealand's food scene. So pack your bags and get ready to savor the flavors of this incredible country!
