New Zealand cuisine is highlighted by its unique position in the world. Its proximity to Asia, history of European influence and Polynesia position means it’s an amalgamation of foods from all around the world. With a blend of influences, you are sure to find something new and exciting in the many cafes and restaurants that line its metropolitan cities, as well as local fresh food that can be found in various coastal spots.
It’s not just modern highlights that can be found in New Zealand, you can discover some local delicacies and old techniques such as Maori cooking that uses native plants. There are plenty of tours that give you the chance to learn about ancient techniques where the ground is used as an oven, where food was cooked underground, a truly authentic way to experience this traditional way of cooking.
New Zealand has an ever-evolving street food scene, where pop up cafes and urban stalls can be found aplenty. If you visit during the summer then get ready for some of the world’s best wine and food festivals that are annually held in Auckland, Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, Nelson, Canterbury and Queenstown with highlights being the Kawhia Kai Festival or the West Coast’s Wildfoods Festival.
Culinary national highlights include dishes made using lamb, pork and cervena, salmon crayfish, bluff oysters, whitebait, abalone, mussels, scallops and pipis and tuatua (shellfish). What you can’t fail to notice when enjoying these meals is the laid back atmosphere, there is no pretentiousness when it comes to enjoying food with the kiwis, just sit back and enjoy it. This relaxed attitude often takes the form of barbeques; this casual nature of dining is a big part of the Kiwi culture.
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