Auckland’s Pies and Matakana Farmers Market
Start your journey in Auckland, where the food scene is a mix of cultures. Grab a flat white and a flaky mince pie from a local bakery before heading south. Stop at Matakana Farmers Market on a Saturday morning for fresh produce, cheese and locally made chutneys. It’s small but full of character and perfect for stocking up before hitting the open road.
Coromandel’s Fish and Chips and Hangi in Rotorua
In the Coromandel, pull over at a beachside café for fish and chips wrapped in paper, best eaten with sandy feet and sea breeze. Further down in Rotorua, try a traditional hangi meal, cooked underground using hot stones. It’s smoky, tender and one of those authentic experiences you’ll remember long after you’re home.
Vineyards and Farmlands in Hawke’s Bay
As you roll into Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s food and wine heartland, you’ll find vineyards and farm gates on every corner. Pick up fresh apples, artisan honey and locally made olive oil. There are plenty of spots to park up your campervan and enjoy a simple picnic with a glass of the region’s famous Chardonnay.
Green-lipped Mussels in Marlborough
Take the Interislander ferry to the South Island and follow your nose to Marlborough for more wine and some of the best green-lipped mussels you’ll ever taste. A short drive west brings you to Nelson, where breweries and craft cideries line the road. Many have outdoor seating so you can park nearby and relax with a tasting paddle.
Crayfish in Kaikōura
Heading further south, Kaikōura is the place for seafood lovers. Crayfish, whitebait and fresh fish are served right from roadside caravans. Grab lunch, find a coastal lookout and enjoy it with a view of seals basking on the rocks below.
Red Wine and Lamb in Queenstown
End your trip in Queenstown and Central Otago, where the focus shifts to rich red wines and local lamb. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a culinary adventure that’s all about fresh flavours, good company and the freedom of life on the road.
Muttonbird in Invercargill
Keep travelling towards Invercargill, where you can try the famous muttonbird, also known as tītī. Traditionally harvested by Māori, it’s rich, oily and full of flavour. Locals usually roast or boil it, often serving it with potatoes or bread to balance the saltiness. You’ll find it in select restaurants and markets around the city, giving you a true taste of southern New Zealand without needing to cross to Stewart Island.
Whether you’re cooking simple meals in your campervan or sampling local specialties, a road trip through New Zealand is one long tasting plate. Just bring your appetite and let the journey do the rest.
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