If you've never tried New Zealand food, you'll definitely want to check them out when you go for a visit. New Zealanders have some of the best blends of tastes and interesting ingredients you'll see. New Zealand is famous for blending a number of flavors inspired by many different cultures. And while food isn't the first thing that pops up when you think about New Zealand, it will be after you explore this list and taste their exquisite New Zealand food.
What Is New Zealand Cuisine?
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New Zealand is a beautiful place with many things to do, all the way from Queenstown to Rotorua and Wanaka. But it’s not just a fun place to travel, but it’s also a great place to eat good food. New Zealand has a thriving agricultural industry and a wonderful assortment of seafood given the waters surrounding them.
So, it comes as no surprise that they mix both land and sea ingredients in their cuisine, mostly locally sourced. And given the country's history, they've drawn food inspiration from many different cuisines. This includes European, American, Southeast Asian, and even Polynesian cuisine coming from the Maori. The Maori and British cuisines, in particular, have had a great influence on them — especially in the more traditional areas of New Zealand.
New Zealand Food: Native, Fast-Food, And Souvenir Foods
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New Zealand is famous for mountain adventures and seeing the southern lights but New Zealand food isn’t always on your mind. That’s a shame because their native food items are some of the best. Native foods include lamb, crayfish, fish, cervena/venison, and lots of shellfish. Fresh local produce is always part of their cuisine. To experience the true local taste, try the Maori hāngi. They are also famous for their fish and chips, making it a must-try. For those seeking hidden gems culinary in food travel, New Zealand’s native offerings are a perfect start.
What About Fast-Food in New Zealand?
Food in New Zealand won't only include native cuisine, though. Globalization has also influenced this faraway country with fast-food chains coming to the area more and more. And while you won't find a McDonald's in all places (especially more remote ones), you'll most likely be able to find your faves in the most popular cities in New Zealand.
KFC, Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut, Wendy's, and Domino's are all examples of fast-food chains that popped up in New Zealand. So when you miss that familiar fast-food taste from time to time, just drop by one when you're in a major city to have some.
How About Some Tasty Souvenirs?
At the end of every trip, you'd likely want to buy a few souvenirs. And perhaps you feel that your friends and family might like to taste a bit of New Zealand food when you get back home. After all, their cuisine is world-class and something that people everywhere should try. But since most meals will expire a short while after they're cooked, what should you bring home?
Well, if you really want them to try New Zealand tastes, try bringing home some chocolates like Whittaker's Chocolate. It's one of New Zealand's home chocolate brands. You can also bring home some New Zealand candies like Hokey Pokeys or Tweats. L&P is also a good option. Native meals aren't the only world-class New Zealand food. Their sweets and chocolates are great, too!
How Much Should I Expect To Spend On Food in New Zealand?
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New Zealand cuisine is definitely something to try. However, keep in mind that New Zealand food isn't always cheap -- depending on which country you come from. Fast-food in New Zealand can cost from $8 to $15 (in New Zealand dollars, also abbreviated as NZ$ or NZD). Some fast-food meals can even cost as low as $5.
If you're up for eating at local restaurants, prices vary significantly. Breakfast can cost between $8 to $15. Dinner meals can cost up to 20 to 40 New Zealand dollars. Lunch generally varies between the cost of breakfast and dinner. During New Zealand Public Holidays, meals for lunch or dinner may cost a whopping NZ$100 per person. If you're looking to cook for yourself, supermarket ingredients range from NZ$2.15 to NZ$21.99 or higher. In general, allow for at least $20 a day for food unless you're eating at higher-end restaurants. For those seeking budget-friendly options, exploring hidden gems brunch in food travel can help stretch your dollar further.
Requirements of Bringing Food To New Zealand
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While it may not be well-known, New Zealand actually has some restrictions when it comes to bringing food into the country. The following items are a no-go in New Zealand:
- Fresh fruit and veggies
- Seeds and flowers
- Prasad (in any form or kind)
- Fresh fish or meat
- Honey and bee products
- Grains and pulses
- Tonics
As long as you steer clear of the foods from this list, you should be safe. However, do note that some food items, while allowed, are required to be declared on your Passenger Arrival Card. For more information on items to be declared, check this link.
Top 20 New Zealand Food
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1.
Afghan Biscuits
No, they're not from Afghanistan. Afghan are actually crunchy New Zealand chocolate cookies. They're baked with flour, butter, sugar, corn flakes, cocoa and they usually have chocolate icing on top. And as a finisher, they're topped off with walnuts. Afghans are normally very dense and rich.
2.
Feijoa aka Acca Sellowiana - A native fruit in New Zealand
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Also known as pineapple guava or guavasteen, feijoa is juicy and aromatic. Eat it raw by cutting it in half, or stew it with sugar for a New Zealand winter favorite. You can also juice it or blend it into a smoothie. It's packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. Look for it in local supermarkets and fruit stalls.
For a broader taste of the country, consider iconic food experiences and tours in food travel that often feature seasonal produce like this.
3.
New Zealand Style Fish & Chips
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Fish and chips are a perfect blend of New Zealand's land and sea local produce. While it isn't a native New Zealand food, it's a well-loved dish that's a big part of New Zealand food culture. The fish they normally use are snappers, tarakihi, and hoki, so you'll get a taste of different kinds of fish. They also sometimes serve squid rings and scallops to go along with it. For a true taste, seek out one of the country's hidden gems culinary in food travel —a local takeaway shop frying fresh batches daily. Make sure to eat it while it's still hot, fresh from the kitchen.
4.
Fried Bread (Paraoa Parai)
Okay, I know it sounds like donuts. But trust me, it isn't! It's healthier and sold in many local bakeshops and night markets. New Zealanders often like pairing it with hot soup or stew during cold winter days. It's also a great quick snack with butter or jam during times when you just wanna eat something yummy. If you wanna make your own, you can with simple ingredients. All it takes is some yeast, sugar, all-purpose flour, and some salt. It's one of the staples in a lot of Maori households and one you should enjoy for yourself.
5.
Hangi (Maori Oven-Cooked Meals)
Hangi is unique not because of its ingredients (meat and vegetables) but in the way it is made. Traditionally enjoyed during important occasions, ingredients are wrapped in leaves, placed in a basket, then set on heated stones inside a deep hole—an underground oven. The hole is covered with earth and left to steam for several hours. This cooking method has been used for thousands of years and takes the whole day to prepare. For travelers seeking authentic cultural meals, this is one of the iconic food experiences and tours in food travel that New Zealand offers.
Hokey Pokey Ice-Cream
While it sounds a little strange, it's actually vanilla ice cream with caramelized sugar. It's one of the most popular New Zealand food items and an estimated 5 million liters of it is consumed yearly. If you want to make your own at home, you can try creating your own version with caster sugar, egg, baking soda, cream, and golden syrup. Just use your electric beaters and your home freezer. However, there's nothing like the real thing, so make sure to check it out during your stay in New Zealand. For more unique flavors, consider exploring the hidden gems culinary in food travel scene.
7.
Taste the Signature New Zealand Kiwi Fruit
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New Zealand is one of the top kiwifruit exporters. Kiwi is often part of the garnish of their Pavlova cake and is also used in juices. It’s also good for tenderizing meat. It’s mostly available in fruit shops and groceries, so don’t be too worried about finding some. Also, try their yellow or golden kiwi for a sweeter and milder taste. For travelers seeking hidden gems brunch in food travel, a fresh kiwi on the side is a simple local touch.
8.
Kurama (Sweet Potatoes)
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Kumara (sweet potatoes) are common elsewhere, but in New Zealand they are cooked in the famous Hāngi dish and also loved as a snack. You’ll find kumara wedges, croquettes, and even chips. These snacks are low-fat, fibrous, and packed with antioxidants. For a true taste of local cuisine, consider seeking out these dishes as part of your exploration of the best food cities and neighborhoods in food travel.
9.
New Zealand Lamb
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Lambs might not be normal meat in other cultures, but in New Zealand, it’s particularly abundant. You’ll find this New Zealand food in almost every restaurant. It’s tender and usually roasted with some garlic and rosemary. Lamb is even cheaper in New Zealand given that the population of sheep is greater than the population of people. It was even part of a McDonald’s New Zealand offering some years back. For travelers seeking the best food cities and neighborhoods in food travel, New Zealand’s lamb is a staple worth seeking out across the country.
Lolly Cake
If you’re in the mood for sweets, try the New Zealand food Lolly Cake. It’s made with candies, marshmallows, and other sweets. The recipe typically includes crushed malt biscuits, melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and desiccated coconut. Add a cup of coffee to the side and you’ve got yourself a delicious dessert. Mwah!
11.
Manuka Honey
If you’re looking for something healthy and delicious, you might want to try some manuka honey. It’s also a perfect New Zealand food item to bring home as a souvenir. Its honey is made of manuka tree pollen that’s abundant in New Zealand. They are also believed to have healing properties for sore throats, gingivitis, and digestive illnesses. Get a bottle from your local health food store or a local farm for authentic manuka honey.
12.
Marmite
Add a bit of butter or margarine and viola! You’ve got yourself a nice New Zealand snack. Marmite is a food paste made of yeast extract and many kinds of herbs. It’s syrupy and has been eaten in New Zealand since 1919.
13.
Minced Meat Pie
Mince Pie is a New Zealand delight and it’s not the typical kind of pie that you’d normally think of. It’s a pastry that’s filled with gravy and meat. And some varieties even add onions, mushrooms, and cheese to the mix. Yum! Mince pies are widely enjoyed in New Zealand. In fact, they love it so much they have an annual pie eating competition that’s been going on since 1997. Talk about pie-lovers! For travelers seeking iconic food experiences and tours in food travel, this savory handheld pie is a must-try.
Mussels
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Seafood is one of New Zealand’s delights and that includes mussels. Green-lipped mussels, to be exact. They’re a native delicacy so they’re usually freshly caught and cooked immediately. It’s low-fat and low-calorie, making it a healthy meal. It tastes awesome and is popular in many restaurants, often served as chowder. For travelers seeking hidden gems culinary in food travel, fresh green-lipped mussels are a must-try.
15.
Pavlova (Meringue-based Dessert)
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Pavlova is New Zealand’s beloved dessert. It’s a meringue dessert with a soft center and a crispy outer layer. Its ingredients include egg whites, caster sugar, and whipped cream with toppings of various fruits. There’s strawberries, passion fruits, and of course, kiwi. Pavlovas are available all year but they’re usually even more popular during Christmas or during summer parties. For those seeking iconic food experiences and tours in food travel, tasting a pavlova is a must.
16.
Sausage Sizzles on a Skillet
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Sausage sizzles are snacks made of sausages on white bread with drizzled tomato sauce or mustard and fried onions on top. You can get them at Bunnings Warehouse, where they sell them every weekend, or at their fund-raising events also called Sausage Sizzles. For a deeper dive into New Zealand’s food scene, check out our guide to hidden gems brunch in food travel.
17.
Spaghetti on a Toast
Spaghetti and toast is a wonderful New Zealand twist on the Italian favorite. It’s exactly what it sounds like: spaghetti on toast with cheese. Once you’ve grilled the spaghetti, serve it straight hot. Try them out at a local diner around town—it’s one of those hidden gems brunch in food travel experiences you won’t forget.
18.
Tuatua
Tuatua is one of the best kinds of seafood in New Zealand by far. It’s a kind of shellfish that’s milder and softer than other shellfish. It’s also believed to be a Maori tradition to eat Tuatua but all kiwi people enjoy them. Sometimes they’re also served as chowders or fritters.
19.
Whitebait Fritter
Whitebait fritters are crispy translucent fish omelets cooked with egg and flour. The fritters are a more expensive type of fish and have a very unique taste. When cooked perfectly, it’s a treat to eat. Most restaurants will be serving whitebait fritters when they’re in season from August to September. If you want to cook it on your own, they’ll also be available from seafood stores.
20.
New Zealand Wine & Cheeses
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If you want a more luxurious experience, try New Zealand’s wines and cheeses. Local supermarkets already house some of New Zealand’s fine cheeses and wines. But if you’re a hardcore wine and cheese-lover, go to an actual wine shop and an artisan cheese producer for the best experience.
Cheddar is the most common cheese in New Zealand and pairs wonderfully with fruity red wines. Try camembert and brie with champagne. For more, go on a wine tour in Central Otago, Gisborne, or Marlborough. For those seeking the best food cities and neighborhoods in food travel, these regions are essential stops.
New Zealand Cuisine
New Zealand food is definitely unique and worthy to try for the traveling tourist. Some of their foods are so unique they’re even a bit surprising. But if you have the spirit of a real explorer make sure not to miss out on all the New Zealand delicacies available. You’re sure not to regret it.
