Taste of New Zealand
Seafood
With more than 14,000 kilometres of coastline, New Zealand is home to some amazing seafood.
Green-lipped Mussels
Green-lipped mussels are easily distinguished from other mussels by the dark green shell with a bright green lip that it is named for. You can get these mussels pretty much anywhere in New Zealand all year around, but it's best to have them at the source around Marlborough, where 80 percent of New Zealand's mussel production is based.
Whitebait
The West Coast of the South Island is known for these tiny fish, caught in nets during springtime. Whitebait is used primarily in fritters.
Bluff oysters
Grown slowly in the cold and clean waters of Foveaux Strait. When in-season the oysters are distributed throughout New Zealand.
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is held in high esteem throughout the world and is one of the country's top export meats. Succulent and tender, roast lamb is a Kiwi favourite. Best enjoyed flavoured with rosemary and plenty of seasonal veggies, roast lamb is a meal that is sure to impress. You'll find it on the menu of our best restaurants nationwide.
Fish and Chips
Best enjoyed while sitting on a New Zealand beach on a balmy summer evening, Fish and Chips is a bonafide Kiwi favourite. Freshly caught snapper, terakihi and hoki are the most common types of fish used, which is then battered and deep-fried. Scallops and squid rings are also often included. Fish and Chips are available pretty much everywhere in New Zealand, and are delicious when accompanied with a beer or two.
Specialty Coffee
Wellington is the "must-go" place for coffee lovers - Brewing coffee is an art form in Wellington and the city is jam packed with individuals who are internationally acclaimed for their barista abilities. Order yourself an Espresso or Flat White at a local boutique coffee shop and experience the vibrant coffee scene yourself.
Artisan Ice Cream
Kiwis are on of the biggest ice cream eaters in the world, packing away an estimated 22 to 23 litres a year per person. Giapo, an ice cream parlour in Auckland CBD, is reinventing this frozen treat. Its edible masterpiece includes shapes of Sky Tower and giant squid, which you may have seen it on Instagram.
New Zealand wine
If you're after award-winning wines and cheeses, look no further than New Zealand. Enjoy full-bodied Pinot Noir, light and fruity Sauvignon Blanc and mouth-filling Merlot. New Zealand also has several world-class cheese making companies, famous for blue cheese, delicious vintages and creamy soft cheeses. Villa Maria, Kapiti, Whitestone and Puhoi Valley are some of the top brands to look out for.
Māori Hāngī
The Hāngī was the most widely used method of cooking by Māori for more than 2000 years. Now saved mainly for special occasions, foods cooked in a Hāngī include chicken, pork and mutton, as well as various vegetables. One of the best places to enjoy this cultural feast is Rotorua, in the central North Island.
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