New Zealand offers a wonderful dining experience with award-winning wineries and quality craft-beer bars. There is also a great restaurant scene, as well as a variety of farmers’ markets. The Pacific location of New Zealand gives it an interesting blend of flavours. European influences mix with Asian and Polynesian.
There’s nothing better than a traditional hangi meal when it comes to food. This hearty meal is prepared underground on heated rocks and is fit for a warrior. The hangi feast today usually includes slow-roasted meats, potatoes, and stuffing. However, there are many other variations.
The seafood is at the opposite end of the spectrum. Locals have plenty of choice – it’s an island nation with many advantages. You can find fresh prawns and lobster all year, as well as mussels, oysters and mussels. However, fish and chips at the beach can also be delicious, especially for those who are on a tight budget.
New Zealand must-try foods and drinks
Craft beer & wine
New Zealand produces a wide range of high quality wines, including many more than the Sauvignon Blancs. There are plenty of cellar doors and vineyards to explore. There are many microbreweries in New Zealand. The Kiwis have a lot to offer the world in the small-batch craft beer movement.
Crayfish
Kaikoura is near the top of South Island and it’s the best place to try crayfish. The sperm-whale capital of the world, Kaikoura, was actually named after the crayfish. In Maori, Kaikoura means ‘eat crayfish’. There are many places to get a taste of the fresh catch.
Lamb
It’s no surprise that succulent lamb is available in many restaurants in New Zealand, as sheep play a significant role in the country’s agricultural economy. You can’t leave New Zealand if you don’t love meat.
Kiwis, Feijoas & Tamarillos
Although none of these fruits actually originated in New Zealand (Kiwis were imported from China, Feijoas and Tamarillos from South America), they have all become synonymous with New Zealand. The kiwi fruit is well-known, but it’s the Feijoas or Tamarillos that you should be able to enjoy while in New Zealand. They are versatile, delicious, and a sought-after taste. You will find them everywhere, from street stalls to front garden giveaways to gourmet cafe meals.
Pavlova
Although the identity of the desert’s creator is being disputed by trans-Tasman relatives, pavlova, a dessert made with meringue and topped with fresh fruit, was invented in Wellington by a chef to honour the tour of New Zealand and Australia of Russian ballet dancer Anna Pavlova in the 1920s. This dessert is a must-try for sweet teeth.