Relocating to New Zealand also means joining our country’s vibrant food and dining scene. Newcomers might know about our high-quality produce and cuisine, but the nuances of local dining habits could well differ from what you’re used to.
From early dinners to a strong culture of home entertaining, New Zealand’s dining scene has its own rhythm.
1. Early Dinners and Closing Times
One of the first things many people notice is that New Zealanders eat dinner quite early. Many families sit down to their evening meal between 6:00 and 7:00 pm, and restaurants follow suit. It’s not uncommon for restaurants, even in major cities, to start winding down by 8:30 pm and be fully closed by 9:00 pm especially during the working week. So, if you enjoy late-night dining, you may find your options limited. Takeaways, too, tend to shut by 9:00 pm, so planning ahead is key for late-night snackers!
2. Lunchtime Rush and Early Sell-Outs
Lunch is typically eaten between 12:00 and 1:00 pm, making this the busiest time for cafés and takeaway spots. Many popular lunch spots can sell out of their best offerings well before closing. If you’re hoping for a fresh sandwich or a pie, it’s best to get there early.
3. Coffee Culture – But Not All Day
New Zealand has a strong coffee culture, and Kiwis take their flat whites seriously. However, coffee is mostly a morning and early afternoon affair. By 3:00 pm, finding a decent cup of coffee can be a challenge.
4. Home Entertaining and Potluck Dinners
While eating out is popular, Kiwis also love to entertain at home. Dinner parties and barbecues are common, and guests are often asked to bring a dish to share—a tradition known as “potluck.” This casual and communal approach to dining makes for relaxed and social gatherings where everyone contributes to the meal. Just as long as everyone doesn't bring the same dish!
5. Unique dining experiences to try
New Zealand’s dining culture reflects the country’s laid-back lifestyle, strong sense of community, and love for fresh, local food.
While you’re adjusting to the early dining hours, planning your lunch strategy, or making your own coffee, here are some unique dining experiences to consider:
Hāngī Feasts – Traditional Māori earth oven cooking, where food is slow-cooked underground
Whitebait Fritters – A Kiwi delicacy best enjoyed fresh in coastal regions
Farm-to-Table Dining – Focusing on fresh, local produce
Alpine Dining – Scenic meals at mountain lodges
Vineyard Dining – World-class wine and food pairings at wineries across New Zealand
Oyster Farms – Freshly shucked Bluff oysters straight from the source
Night Markets – Variety of street food in New Zealand’s main cities
Kia ora and welcome to New Zealand!
Mobile Relocation connects you with what you need to thrive in New Zealand. Contact us today to talk about how we can carry your relocation burden.
If you are a recruiter or HR Professional bringing international talent to NZ Mobile Relocation has a range of settlement support services to suit your candidates and your business - from baseline support to meet Immigration New Zealand’s AEWV Accreditation requirements (Kiwi Launch Pad) through to personalised programmes to support your most valued international employees.
Bridget is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent.
Source: www.mobile-relocation.com