New Zealand is a land of breathtaking landscapes, and the country’s natural beauty, adventure sports and laid back attitude are often the star of the show on a trip to the Land of the Long White Cloud. So, because of this, its food scene can often go under the radar. However, the food is amazing, varied and a unique experience in its own right. So, we thought it was worth creating our guide to New Zealand’s Must Try Foods. Fine dining restaurants, vineyard bistros, local pubs and an abundance of casual cafes are all going to add to your incredible travel experience while you’re here.
The cosmopolitan cities are a cultural melting pot, with food that reflects this. Some of our favourite restaurants to go as a family offer spicy Korean hot pots, delicious Yum Cha, handmade pasta, amazing Ramen just like in Japan, woodfired pizza, authentic Indian curries and sizzling Thai food. There’s a ton of fresh seafood, delicious meat dishes and European influenced food too though. But it’s probably out in the countryside, of which there is a lot, that offers the local delights that are a bit more unique to the country.
1. Hāngi
A traditional Māori method of cooking, Hāngi involves slow-cooking food in an underground oven. Meat, potatoes and vegetables are wrapped in leaves and buried with hot stones, allowing the food to steam and smoke over several hours. The result is tender, flavourful dishes infused with a unique, earthy taste. Our first experience of this was during a cultural experience at a marae (cultural meeting house) while in Rotorua. A little touristy but awesome just the same and, unless you’re super lucky on your trip, it might be the only way you get to try this traditional feast.
2. Pavlova
Pavlova is a staple of every Kiwi Christmas feast and BBQ dessert table. New Zealand claims this as its own creation, but so do the Aussies so who knows! This meringue-based dessert, crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, is topped with whipped cream and fresh summer fruits like kiwifruit, strawberries or passionfruit. It’s a light and refreshing way to end a meal and a proper taste of New Zealand summer.
3. Green-Lipped Mussels
New Zealand is famous for its seafood and green-lipped mussels are a local delicacy you shouldn’t miss. These mussels are larger and sweeter than their counterparts and are often served steamed with garlic butter, white wine and herbs. Marlborough, at the top of the South Island, is particularly renowned for them and a visit to the region isn’t complete without trying them.
4. Pie
If you’re coming to New Zealand on holiday, chances are you’re going to be doing some miles and no road trip is complete without a humble pie. Every bakery and fuel stop along the way will have a selection of much loved favourites like Mince and Cheese, Bacon and Egg breakfast pies, Steak, and Seafood. But dessert pies, locally caught game pies, Butter Chicken, potato topped pies and Thai curry chicken pies will also probably be on the menu. Often homemade, these are a filling way to keep you going during your travels. Definitely right up there on the list of New Zealand’s Must Try Foods.
5. Fish and Chips
A British import that has become a Kiwi staple, fish and chips are best enjoyed by the beach. There are approximately 2,500 fish and chip shops across the country so one will be easy to find. Freshly caught fish, usually snapper, gurnard or hoki, is battered and deep-fried to golden perfection then served with a generous portion of fries. Being a Brit myself though, the huge difference in New Zealand is that your food is always cooked fresh to order. There’s no heated cabinets of already cooked cod on offer here.
6. Lamb
New Zealand is known for its high-quality lamb, most of which is exported so you may have tried it in your home country already. There’s an estimated 25 million sheep across Aotearoa so a nice lamb dish will be easy to find. You’ll find it featured prominently on menus across the country in pubs and restaurants; as a succulent roast, grilled chops or a slow-cooked stew, accompanied by seasonal vegetables and rich gravy. A must try while in New Zealand, for sure.
7. Mānuka Honey
Not exactly a dish, but Mānuka honey is still a must-try when in New Zealand. Produced from the nectar of the Mānuka tree, this honey is known for its rich flavour and health benefits such as its anti-bacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. You can find it drizzled over your muesli and yogurt in the breakfast cafe, or as an ingredient in gourmet dishes or health products. The North Island’s East Cape is particularly famous for its Mānuka honey.
8. Kumara (Sweet Potato)
Kumara has been a staple in the Māori diet for centuries. There are different varieties – red, gold, and orange kumara, each with a slightly different taste and texture. Roasted, mashed or added to stews and soups, kumara is a versatile veggie that you’ll easily find on menus. Referring back to the fish and chips earlier for example, you’ll find Kumara fries on the menu here without fail – my choice for sure, over regular potato fries.
9. Whitebait Fritters
Whitebait is a seasonal delicacy in New Zealand available in spring. These tiny, transparent, whole fish are mixed with eggs and lightly fried to make fritters. The fritters are delicate and often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a slice of buttered bread. They’re a treat you’ll find especially on the West Coast of the South Island. Although, our first try was at the Matakana markets just north of Auckland. To me, they’re an acquired taste, but the locals go nuts for them so they’re worth a mention.
10. Feijoa
A fruit that’s loved by Kiwis, the feijoa is a small, green fruit with a unique flavour that’s a mix of pineapple, guava and strawberry. Our kids absolutely adore them – cut in half, eaten fresh, scooped out of the skin. But you’ll find them in everything from jams and chutneys to cakes, wine, sodas and ice cream. The feijoa season is short, so you’ll only get to try them if you’re visiting in autumn.
11. Chocolate
This blog was originally supposed to be the top ten foods but I had to add an eleventh because I just love the chocolate here. When people were stockpiling toilet paper during the Covid pandemic, I was stockpiling Whittaker’s Chocolate. Some top ones you have to try are; Whittakers chocolate in literally any flavour – Caramel, Hokey Pokey, Coconut, Berry and Biscuit – they’re all great. Other must try’s are Peanut Slabs (again by Whittakers), Pixie Caramels, Pineapple Lumps and Perky Nanas. Iconic bars that are worth picking up at any dairy (convenience store) or supermarket.
So, if the amazing landscapes and beautiful outdoor activities aren’t already enough reasons to visit New Zealand, then the food that you’ll experience while you’re here might just tip you over the edge. Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore top city dining experiences, or a backpacker looking for a filling meal on the go, you’ll be happy and full. I hope these top eleven must-try foods will give you a taste of New Zealand that adds to your already unique travel experience.
I hope you enjoyed our blog on New Zealand’s Must Try Foods. For some ideas on things to do while on your travels around New Zealand, check out our blog post here.
