A “new kid on the
block”, this modern cafe with all-weather alfresco dining is an extension of the well-loved Origin Northland. The inviting surroundings accompany a varied menu for all-day dining. Local, seasonal ingredients are at the heart of the food, highlighted by custom local roasted coffee, curated local wine and beer, and imaginative cocktails – a must-visit when in Waipu.
51 The Centre, Waipu
Charlotte’s Kitchen
Charlotte’s Kitchen.
A stunning location perched over the water on Paihia Wharf, it’s hard not to exhale and enjoy the view before you have tasted a single thing. Offering a lovingly curated menu for all preferences, including imaginative fusion plates and excellent woodfired pizzas, the food here can be enjoyed alongside a thoughtful drinks selection, including highlights from Northland, and an enticing selection of cocktails. A favourite for locals and visitors that embodies a Northland vibe – relaxed, fun and delicious.
69 Marsden Rd, Paihia
Old Packhouse Cafe
Packhouse Cafe.
A longtime favourite of many, Old Packhouse Cafe consistently offers a generous and varied selection of cafe fare and never disappoints. From delicate handmade savoury tarts, excellent pies, zesty, interesting salads, through to seasonal fruit pastries and its famous cheese scones. Celebrating local producers and the ingredients they supply, the service and setting are always welcoming.
505 Kerikeri Rd, Kerikeri
AUCKLAND
The Oyster Inn, Waiheke Island
Winter is one of the best times to visit Waiheke, when the crowds thin and long lunches take centre stage. Overlooking Oneroa Bay, The Oyster Inn showcases fresh local seafood, including Te Matuku oysters, alongside Waiheke wines. It’s the perfect excuse to hop on the ferry for a leisurely winter escape.
124 Ocean View Rd, Oneroa, Waiheke Island
Apero Food & Wine
Leslie Hottiaux and Mo Koski at Apero.
As the temperatures drop, Apero comes into its own. And when everywhere else is shut on a Monday, Apero’s doors are open. This intimate neighbourhood favourite is known for its seasonal menu, exceptional wine list and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Tucked in on Karangahape Rd, it’s the perfect spot to linger over comforting dishes and a glass of red this winter. Apero also just made the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand list.
280 Karangahape Rd
Broke Boy Taco Mt Albert
Broke Boy Taco at Mt Albert, Auckland.
Nothing beats a great taco on a crisp winter’s day, and Broke Boy Taco delivers every time. This Mt Albert favourite has built a loyal following with handmade tortillas, bold Mexican flavours and quality local ingredients. You can also find an outpost in Birkenhead on the North Shore – proof that some of Auckland’s best dining experiences are found beyond the city centre.
964 New North Rd, Mt Albert
WAIKATO
Sage
Sage Hamilton’s Braised Lamb. Photo / Alex Armstrong
Sage is a warm neighbourhood shared dining experience that has become a local favourite. Expect thoughtful, seasonal dishes that champion quality produce, inventive cocktails and welcoming service. Originally launched as a pop-up, Sage reflects the confidence and creativity shaping Hamilton’s dining scene, making it a must-visit.
Level 1/300 Grey St, Hamilton East
Grey Roasting Co | The Tasting Room
What began as a garage passion project has become one of Hamilton’s standout coffee destinations. Founded by two-time New Zealand Barista Champion Dove Chen, Grey Roasting Co.’s riverside tasting room at MADE serves exceptional specialty coffee in a relaxed setting. Drop in for a beautifully crafted brew, try something different with a coffee tasting flight, and get a taste of Hamilton’s thriving coffee culture.
Made Market, Hamilton East
The Shack
The Shack.
Ask a Raglan local where to eat, and chances are they’ll point you to The Shack. Beloved for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly service and locally sourced menu, it’s equally good for a post-surf breakfast, long brunch or legendary cheeseburger. Unpretentious, welcoming and full of Raglan charm.
A selection of offerings available at The Shack, Raglan.
19 Bow St, Raglan
BAY OF PLENTY
Umami
Umami, Bay of Plenty.
The residential suburb of Pyes Pā, 10km from the Tauranga city centre, may seem an unusual spot to find an authentically delicious Asian fusion restaurant. But you’d be wise to trust the locals who dine there. Umami is a Japanese word described as the fifth taste (alongside sweet, salt, sour and bitter). This kitchen bar is inspired by the lively izakaya culture and its menu blends Southeast Asian flavours with a modern Japanese twist, resulting in fresh, seasonal dishes that are made to share. This is where tradition meets rebellion. Enjoy lunch, happy hour drinks and finger food, dinner, or dessert and coffee.
83 Pyes Pā Rd, Tauranga
Rose’s Dining Table
Rose’s Dining Table.
Whether you’ve booked a fabulous holiday home that you’ll be reluctant to leave, or you want to host an unforgettable special dinner for family, friends, or business contacts, Rose’s Dining Table knows how to create all the right vibes. This owner-operator private supper club and conceptual dining provider is a finalist in three categories at this year’s NZ Events Association awards. As a self-taught cook, Rose delivers wildly delicious feasts that are designed to prompt authentic human connection. All serving plates are provided, and the kitchen clean-up is included.
Across Tauranga, including Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa
ROTORUA
Te Puia six-course degustation
Te Puia offers a six-course degustation in Rotorua.
After a run of sold-out degustations in 2025, executive chef Shane Beattie returns with this immersive dining experience celebrating the landscapes of Te Puia. Beginning in the Geothermal Valley, each course in this carefully crafted degustation draws inspiration from seasonal ingredients, cultural connection and culinary creativity, designed to awaken a different sense with every bite.
Te Puia | New Zealand Māori Arts & Crafts Institute, 20 Hemo Rd, Rotorua
TARANAKI
Reuben’s
Reuben’s.
Tucked into an industrial pocket of New Plymouth, Reuben’s is the cult favourite locals would rather keep to themselves. Think killer toasties, fresh bakes and some of the best sandwiches you’ll ever eat. The fit-out is stunning, the vibe effortless and the landscaping stops you in your tracks. Behind it all, a hospo legend with a loyal following. Find it, and you won’t look back.
16 Oropuriri Rd, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth
Back Door Distillery Ōpunakē
Back Door Distillery Ōpunakē.
Round the back of Arty Tarts Cafe in Ōpunakē, through the courtyard, is one of the South Taranaki coast’s best-kept secrets. A family-built distillery dripping with character, curios and craft spirits, where every corner has a story and every sip has a reason. Pull up a stool, try a tasting flight, or let someone mix you a cocktail. Friday to Sunday, 11am–8pm.
88 Tasman St, Ōpunake
Funk Fish
Inglewood’s Funk Fish has been serving up a Kiwi favourite since the 1920s, which could make it one of New Zealand’s oldest fish and chip shops. It’s your classic chippy with a twist: first-class takeaways alongside a fully licensed restaurant, so you can grab and go or settle in and make a night of it. Fresh, honest and a proper slice of small-town Kiwi history.
32 Matai St, Inglewood
RUAPEHU
Station Cafe Waimarino
The Station Cafe Waimarino offers mountain views.
Enjoy exceptional hospitality, divine meals, tasty soups and smoothies in Waimarino’s historic railway station – an inviting space to slow down and savour the simple moments in life. You’ll have easy access to the Northern Explorer trains passing through, KiwiCamp’s Park ’n’ Ride overnight facilities, as well as mountain shuttle transport heading up to Whakapapa Ski Area.
Waimarino (formerly known as National Park Village)
Nook Ohakune
Nook Ōhakune.
Tucked away in the mountain town of Ohakune, Nook Ohakune serves up epic coffee and small-batch baking in the cosiest corner of New Zealand’s carrot capital. A few doors down from the Ohakune isite Visitor Information Centre, Nook is a cheerful spot to have a yarn with locals and fuel up for your mountain missions.
56 Clyde St, Ohakune
The Kitchen Ohakune
The Kitchen Ohakune.
Located at the bottom of Ohakune Mountain Rd, the Kitchen Ohakune is a gathering place for good vibes and great F&B. Soak up the live music, apres-ski vibes by the fire, and a delicious, diverse menu ranging from fresh tapas to handcrafted pizzas. The perfect setting to enjoy cocktails, craft beers and community after exploring Tongariro National Park.
4 Thames St, Ruapehu
MANAWATŪ
Beaver and Bear
Beaver and Bear, Manawatū.
After working in bars and restaurants in Canada and adopting a love for Canadian cuisine, the owners of Beaver and Bear arrived home and wanted to introduce it to other Kiwis. Starting out as a food truck, Beaver and Bear is now a staple in Palmy’s dining scene. Focusing on chicken wings, smash burgers and poutine, it offers the taste and warmth of authentic Canadian fare through quality ingredients.
3 Campbell St, Palmerston North Central
Babco
Babco, Manawatū.
Babco – Brick Artisan Bread Company is all about great-tasting food, done with integrity and finesse. It makes sourdough breads, French pastries, traditional pretzels, coffee, milkshakes, soft serve, sandwiches, toasties and more. Everything is made fresh daily and from scratch. Its small team is a passionate group of everyday, confessed foodies who share the same vision for exquisite food made with care, attention and a whole lot of love.
3B/95 Albert St, Terrace End, Palmerston North
Ebony Coffee Roasters
Ebony, Manawatū.
Pop into Ebony Coffee Roasters, one of six Palmy-based coffee roasteries, for the city’s favourite coffee blends. Roasting in Manawatū since 1996, Ebony roasts a range of espresso blends, decafs and interesting single-origin specialties for espresso or filter brewing. Follow your nose to the busy espresso bar on Featherston St for the best cup of joe you’ve had for a while.
208 Featherston St, Takaro, Palmerston North
WAIRARAPA
Palliser Kitchen Martinborough
The Palliser Kitchen is led by award-winning executive chef Norka Mella Munoz, whose talent, vision and menu have earned Palliser recognition with a Cuisine Hat in 2025. Nestled among Palliser’s organic vineyards in the heart of Martinborough, Wairarapa, the Palliser Kitchen celebrates local, seasonal and artisanal ingredients crafted into dishes that pair beautifully with Palliser’s world-class wines. Blending Norka’s Chilean heritage with New Zealand influences, the Palliser Kitchen offers a refined yet relaxed vineyard dining experience – where every plate reflects sustainability, creativity and the character of our land.
Palliser Estate Vineyard, Martinborough
Pour and Explore
A month-long festival of food, wine, art and exploration transforms Martinborough’s quiet season into a compelling reason to visit. Martinborough has long been known for its pinot noir and long lunches. However, this August, the village invites you to savour the sights, flavours and experiences of winter in the area instead of hunkering down. This year offers more than 70 experiences spanning food, wine, art, creativity, outdoor adventures and live music, all hosted by some of the region’s finest producers, venues and makers. One pop-up food event (every Thursday during August, 3-9pm) is The Hunter’s Table Karahui Wine Bar & Restaurant at Memorial Square. Think venison, goat and kune kune. For the full programme, see pourandexploremartinborough.co.nz
Martinborough
WELLINGTON
Visa Wellington On a Plate
Wellington On a plate. Photo / Puku Pies & Kai
Visa Wellington On a Plate returns this August, centred on the theme “Word of Mouth”. Venues across the city and wider region are serving up a packed programme of food experiences. From immersive events and international chef appearances to pop-up restaurants and the ever-popular Burger Wellington competition, there is plenty to explore and even more to taste.
Various venues across Wellington
Cutie Pie Pizza
Cutie Pie Pizza in Wellington. Photo / Cutie Pie Pizza
Cutie Pie, owned by Tommy Kirton and Alicia Mendez, serves delicious American East Coast-style pizza pies. Expect hand-stretched dough, a visible char and simple toppings. Limited sourdough batches make bookings essential for dine-in or takeaway. The pizzeria also hosts hands-on pizza workshops every second Wednesday, where guests can learn the craft. Private bookings are available.
31 Waitoa Rd, Hataitai, Wellington
Octo
Octo in Aro Valley. Photo / WellingtonNZ
Newly opened Octo serves up music, food and drink in Aro Valley. Inspired by Japan’s jazz vinyl listening bars, this record store transforms into a yakitori and cocktail bar after dark. This July, every Friday and Saturday, vinyl DJs spin tunes while charcoal-grilled skewers, Japanese-inspired bites and cocktails are served. Expect yakitori, karaage, edamame and more.
102 Aro St, Aro Valley, Wellington
MARLBOROUGH
Oxley’s Bar and Kitchen
Diners at Oxley’s Bar & Kitchen overlooking the Picton waterfront.
Oxley’s Bar & Kitchen, overlooking the waterfront, is a Picton landmark. It still maintains the 1870s “Bank Hotel” facade and inside there is a warm and comfortable dining and bar experience showcasing many items of memorabilia. In its early days, Oxley’s was a meeting place for whalers and fishermen and still serves as a place for connection, offering good food, great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
1 Wellington St, Picton
Oak & Ivy
One of the offerings at Oak & Ivy in Blenheim.
When owner Edward Drury first imagined his restaurant Oak & Ivy in Blenheim, he saw a place of comfort with fabulous cuisine celebrating local ingredients. Produce from the doorstep – think of the productivity of Marlborough – is front and centre in this restaurant. Enjoy a menu that changes with the season. Edward has good reason to be proud of doing things the “right way”.
42 Alfred St, Blenheim
Little Amigo’s Mexican Restaurant and Bar
Little Amigo’s Mexican Restaurant and Bar, Marlborough.
Little Amigo’s Mexican Restaurant and Bar is a favourite with Blenheim locals. Tucked away in suburban Redwood, you step inside and there’s a fantastic atmosphere, created by artwork celebrating the vibrant, joyous Mexican holiday known as the Day of the Dead. The holiday celebrates loved ones who have passed. The restaurant is known for its authentic home-cooked Mexican food and fabulous Margaritas.
91 Weld St, Blenheim
QUEENSTOWN
The Bunker
The Bunker Restaurant and Bar.
Hidden down Cow Lane behind an unassuming entrance, The Bunker has long been a favourite for those in the know. The intimate dining room and roaring fireplace set the scene for a menu showcasing outstanding South Island ingredients, paired with an excellent Central Otago wine list. Warm, welcoming and quietly sophisticated, it’s a great choice for a special evening in Queenstown.
14 Cow Lane, Queenstown
La Rumbla
La Rumbla has been drawing diners to Arrowtown for more than a decade with its vibrant take on Spanish-inspired sharing plates. Set in a cosy cottage off Buckingham St, the menu pairs bold Mediterranean flavours with quality local produce, from house-made croquetas and woodfired vegetables to lamb and seafood dishes designed for sharing. Warm and welcoming, it’s a compelling reason to venture beyond central Queenstown.
54 Buckingham St, Arrowtown
Tanoshi
Tanoshi, Queenstown.
Tanoshi is tucked down Cow Lane, where an intimate izakaya-style setting and authentic Japanese cooking have earned it a loyal local following. Expect Japanese tapas, teppan-grilled dishes, sake and plates inspired by the backstreets of Osaka. Highlights include the wagyu beef tataki and teppan-grilled lamb cutlets, alongside a well-curated sake list.
Cow Lane, Queenstown
WĀNAKA
Rippon Presents The Chef’s Table
Rippon Presents The Chef’s Table is one of Wānaka’s standout winter dining experiences, bringing people together over generous shared plates of local produce, slow-cooked meats and seasonal flavours, all matched with Rippon wines. Combining kitchen-side dining, roaring fires and spectacular lake views, it makes the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the ski fields. Open Wednesday–Sunday evenings throughout winter.
246 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Rd, Wānaka
Little Street Kitchen
Little Street Kitchen is the latest venture from the team behind Wānaka favourite Now Bao, bringing their popular Asian-inspired flavours into a permanent home. Expect inventive share plates, house-made bao, seasonal Central Otago produce and a menu designed for sharing – striking a balance between quality, creativity and value. It’s quickly establishing itself as one of Wānaka’s must-visit dining spots.
2 Little St, Wānaka
Pembroke Patisserie
For a more casual taste of Wānaka, Pembroke Patisserie is worth the short detour to Albert Town. This award-winning French-inspired bakery has developed a loyal following for its pastries, doughnuts, pies and almond croissants, all made using traditional techniques and quality local ingredients. Whether you’re fuelling up before a ski day or grabbing lunch between adventures, it’s the kind of place locals return to again and again.
20 Alison Ave, Albert Town, Wānaka
CENTRAL OTAGO
The Packing Shed
The Packing Shed. Photo / Miles Holden
“Good food and great company are the best therapy. It’s the kind you can savour.” This is the food philosophy at the Packing Shed, where staff blend delectable flavours with the serene beauty of their family orchard. Every dining experience is infused with a touch of enchantment, creating memories that keep you returning for more.
68 Bolton Rd, Alexandra
Carrick Winery Restaurant
Bannockburn Carrick Winery. Photo / Miles Holden
Chef Gwen Harvie specialises in taking the best of local produce and creating dishes to celebrate the flavours of place. Set in one of Central Otago’s earliest organic vineyards, overlooking the Bannockburn inlet and with the Lake Dunstan cycle and walking trail at its front door, Carrick is the perfect place to spend time relaxing and enjoying the best food and wine while taking in the views.
247 Cairnmuir Rd, Bannockburn, Cromwell
Sanga’s Pies
Cromwell’s Sanga’s Pies. Photo / Geoff Marks
Hidden away in the industrial area of Cromwell, tradie brothers Rob and Chris and their foodie friend Miro’s pies regularly receive reviews confirming they are creating exceptional pies. As the brothers say, tradies know a thing or two about pies. Choose from flaky beauties packed with signature fillings such as The Baconator, Holy Smoke, Underbelly, The Southlander, Cluckenberry Thyme and more.
4 Chardonnay St, Cromwell
DUNEDIN
Southern Clams at Esplanade
Southern Clams at Esplanade.
At Esplanade Restaurant, ordering the clams in wine is a must. The dish arrives briny, buttery and fragrant with garlic. The dish showcases Southern Clams’ littleneck clams, which are harvested from Dunedin’s northern beaches. Pair with an Otago white or Italian spritz and enjoy how the floor-to-ceiling windows frame the rolling surf and St Clair’s rugged shoreline as you eat. Fresh local seafood, salt air and big ocean views – it’s Dunedin dining at its most relaxed.
2 Esplanade, St Clair
Cheese Rolls in Queens Garden
Cheese Rolls in Queens Garden.
Grab a takeaway from Bakehouse on Bond and head to Queens Gardens for a scenic al fresco snack. Nothing is more Southern than the cheese roll. Order the traditional flavour and then, for a bit of novelty, brave the “Angry Cheese Roll”, loaded with sriracha for a spicy kick. Find a bench under the trees overlooking the cenotaph and Dunedin’s heritage buildings while you nibble.
58 Bond St, Central Dunedin
Vault 21’s Braised Beef Wontons
Vault 21 Dunedin.
At Vault 21 in Dunedin’s Octagon, order the local Silver Fern Farms’ braised beef wontons and settle in for the best fusion of global flavours and local produce. Though the menu is full of winners, the wontons arrive plump, rich and slow-cooked for 12 hours, alongside miso mayo, chilli and coriander. Sit near the windows and watch the Octagon activity shuffle past under heritage buildings while you consider ordering the glazed steak for your main.
21 The Octagon, Central Dunedin