New Zealand food is internationally renowned. A wide range of cuisine and styles are available to suit every budget. Dining out in the larger cities you will have a plethora of options while in the smaller towns you may only have one or two choices such as a local pub or the hotel you are staying in.
Restaurants
The style of cuisine will also be more extensive in cities, where you’ll find all manner of international eateries and fusion style restaurants. As a guide expect to pay between NZ$30 and NZ$40 per main dinner course for most restaurants and cafes. And remember tipping is optional in New Zealand -- staff are not reliant on tips.
Takeaway Food
A cheaper option is the abundance of take-away meals available, ranging from Indian to Thai to the Kiwi favorite of fish and chips. A take-away meal for 2 people might cost around NZ$30-50. Breakfast at a local café will cost between NZ$15 and NZ$35 depending on the style and location.
Bed & Breakfast
Bed and Breakfasts and boutique lodges will often include breakfast in the room rate, which can work out to be a savings.
Self Catering
The most cost effective way to dine as you travel through New Zealand is to self-cater. We have a fantastic range of motel and apartment style accommodation that contain kitchenettes or kitchens so you can prepare you own meals. Supermarkets are located near most of the accommodations you’ll stay at, with a few exceptions in remote locations, but we will advise you of these so you buy groceries before arriving. As well as supermarkets you can also shop at farmers markets on weekends and these are often great places to browse for local produce.
Are you interested in making local food and wine a particular focus of your New Zealand touring experience? We can certainly help you organise this. Here's a selection of our itineraries to inspire you, check them out and get in touch. Together we'll make sure you include all the right dining experiences.
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A popular style of touring is to take a preplanned self drive road trip. After a thorough consultation with you we expertly plan and create your self drive tour around New Zealand. These tours allow you the freedom to explore at leisure with the comfort and security of pre-booked activities and accommodations. Route suggestions, APP guidance plus local support mean your New Zealand vacation is in safe hands. See self drive ideas here
If you prefer to let someone else do the work then an escorted small group tour might be for you. Our sister company at New Zealanbd Coach has a range of hand picked small group itineraries are ideal if you prefer to travel in the company of like minded people. Tours are limited to a certain number of participants which means different accommodation options, exclusive activities and of course a knowledgeable guide ensures you get to see the best of New Zealand. See small group tours here.
A private guided tour offers true flexibility and the security of a knowledgeable local guiding you all the way. Well planned itineraries ensure you see exactly what you want to see but with your own driver-guide you can adapt to suit the day or your preference. 100% tailor-made to suit you a private tour is a great option when travelling as a small group. All our self drive itineraries can be replanned and priced using a private driver and guide, so if it is what you fancy just contact us to discuss.
All North Island touring ideas - See here to explore the diverse North Island - itinerary suggestions.
All South Island touring ideas - Iconic scenery and landscapes await on this made for touring island. See itinerary suggestions
All Nationwide touring ideas - See the best of New Zealand on these all encompassing touring itinerary ideas