There are so many things to experience in New Zealand; the stunning beaches, towering mountains, endemic wildlife and friendly locals, but one thing most travelers don't anticipate is New Zealand's incredible food. One of the perks of being a small island nation is that it inherently breeds creativity and independence. While New Zealand is heavily influenced by England, their remote location and the perfect agricultural climate (temperate and sub-tropical) have led them to create an array of cuisine that is fresh, creative and unique to New Zealand. Here are 9 foods you shouldn't miss in New Zealand:
1. Cheese Please!
New Zealand is known for having more sheep than people, but did you know there are also more cows? The North Island especially, has a thriving dairy industry that churns out fresh and tasty dairy products. Visit an artisan cheese maker - you won't be disappointed!
2. Local Wine
Walk into just about any grocery or corner store and you'll find a wide variety of local wines to choose from. For an incredible wine-tasting experience, go to the Central Otago region on the South Island or the Gisborne and Marlborough regions on the North Island - and yes, wine is a food!
3. Maori Hangi
The traditional cooking method of the Maori is called a Hangi (earth oven). Root vegetables and meats are wrapped in leaves and cooled in the ground, on top of heated stones. The long slow steaming process results in tender meat and a delicious smokey flavor. A Hangi can be experienced as part of a cultural show in Rotorua or even in some restaurants.
4. Fergburger
when you visit Queenstown, a trip to Fergburger is a must. Don't be dissuaded be the long lines, this burger joint has earned a cult following for a reason - huge, creative, delicious burgers. Their diverse menu serves up beef, lamb, pork, vegetarian, and even deer burgers. To avoid the lines, try visiting mid-afternoon.
5. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream
A favorite sweet treat unique to New Zealand is hokey pokey candy, which is often added to ice cream. A crispy toffee, hokey pokey melts in your mouth instantly and also comes in candy bar form. It makes a great souvenir to take home and share!
6. Pavlova
Pavlova is a meringue dessert with a crispy outer layer and a soft center, usually served with fruits like kiwi, passion fruit and strawberries and is popular for celebrations. The kiwis claim it originated in New Zealand although Australians will fiercely debate this!
7. Surf and Turf
Completely surrounded by coastline and with 20 sheep and 7 cows to each person, it's easy to find incredible surf and turf in New Zealand. Besides being fresh and homegrown, organic farms abound and the culinary scene is thriving, especially in Auckland.
8. Feijoas
Everyone knows New Zealand is famous for kiwi fruit but have you had a feijoa? Feijoas are to kiwis what apples are to Americans and almost everyone has them growing in their backyard to snack on. They have a unique taste and smell, which works great in juices - which you'll find plenty of in stores.
9. Flat White
Kiwis invented the flat white, which is essentially the opposite of a "dry cappuccino", and kiwis are crazy for them. Try one in Wellington, New Zealand's capital, which happens to have the highest concentration of cafes in the country - and yes, coffee is considered a food as well!