The best New Zealand road trip destinations for foodies

New Zealand is the ultimate road trip destination, boasting stunning landscapes, a vibrant culture, and fresh and delicious food. Rental car sorted? Great. Now check out our list of top spots for foodies in New Zealand.

Epic street food in Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau

We had to give props to the North Island’s crowning city, Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau. It's a great place to begin your New Zealand adventure, especially if you love good food.

• Pakuranga Night Markets: This place is jam-packed with multicultural eats and epic street food.
• Otara Market: Nourish yourself with fresh produce that is grown right here in New Zealand.
• Ponsonby Central: A must-see if you’re into chic bars and gourmet food. It’s a great place for a night out.

Recommended car: For city driving, we recommend an intermediate vehicle, like a Toyota Corolla or similar. This car is fuel efficient and easy to park.

Location: Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau is located on the North Island, serviced by both international and domestic airports.

Wine tasting in Marlborough

We can’t talk about great foodie destinations in New Zealand without mentioning Marlborough / Te Tauihu o Te Waka. Whether you’re visiting for the wineries or seafood, Marlborough is a world-class location.

• The Marlborough wine trail: Take your pick of over 150 wineries, and explore the vineyards dotted around the area.
• Seafood cruise: Aside from the abundance of wine, New Zealand farms most of their salmon right here in the Marlborough Sounds. Jump on a cruise, and wine and dine until your heart's content.

Recommended car: For country driving, we recommend an SUV, like a Mitsubishi Outlander or similar for a comfortable drive.

Location: Located in the northeast of the South Island, Marlborough / Te Tauihu o Te Waka is a popular wine region.

An New Zealand classic in Queenstown / Tāhuna

Imagine ice-capped mountains surrounding a cosy town perched on the water. That’s exactly what Queenstown / Tāhuna is like. After feasting your eyes on its amazing scenery, you can now satisfy your cravings.

• Famous fish and chips: Are you after an New Zealand classic? You’ll find the best fish and chips right here in Queenstown / Tāhuna. Sit back, watch the sunset, and enjoy this classic meal.
• Gourmet restaurants: The foodie vibe here is aplenty. Pick a cosy spot in one of their outstanding wine bars and indulge in some fine dining. The mix of word-class produce and skilled chefs is an epic combo.

Recommended car: For long distances, we recommend a large SUV like a Toyota Highlander or similar for comfort.

Location: Queenstown / Tāhuna is located in Otago / Ōtākou in the South Island of New Zealand. You’ll fall in love with this beautiful town (plus the drive here is breathtaking).

Stunning scenery and seafood in Milford Sound

Fiordland National Park is home to the natural wonder that is Milford Sound. Not only does this place look like a postcard, it’s also home to great food.

• Seafood, seafood, and more seafood: This is the place to be if you are wanting to try the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat in your life.
• Cafe hopping: There are several cafes you’ll pass on your way to Milford Sound, many offering traditional Kiwi food, such as Bracken Hall in Mossbourn that’s popular for its delicious pies.

Recommended car: For windy roads, we recommend a compact SUV, like a Lexus RX350 or similar.

Location: Fiordland National Park is home to the natural wonder that is Milford Sound, and is located in the southwest of New Zealand.

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