Chapter · Volume New Zealand

Auckland

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Auckland's food scene is built on the Pacific Rim: Māori earth-cooking traditions, British colonial staples, and the largest concentration of Pacific Islander peoples in the world converge with a deep-rooted East Asian immigrant community to produce something distinct from any other city. The city sits between two harbors on an active volcanic field, which means fresh seafood — snapper, green-lipped mussels, Bluff oysters in season, Pāua abalone — dominates menus from waterfront fine-dining rooms to suburban takeaway shops. British imports like the meat pie, the Sunday roast, and fish and chips have been adapted into something unmistakably Kiwi: pie-pastry made by neighborhood bakers who compete in national awards, and chippies that argue fiercely over batter recipe and oil freshness. Seasonal eating is taken seriously; whitebait fritters and Bluff oysters each have a narrow window, and Auckland restaurants treat their arrival as an event. The urban food geography runs roughly north–south along Ponsonby Road and Karangahape Road, east along the waterfront through Britomart and the Viaduct, and spreads out to the suburbs and the island of Waiheke, a 40-minute ferry ride away.

Local tip

A good chippie is judged by three things in Auckland: the freshness of the oil, the species of fish (always ask for "fish of the day" — snapper or tarakihi over imported hoki), and whether they fry to order rather than holding under a lamp. Friday evening is the communal ritual; suburban shops queue out the door from 17:00, so arrive by 16:30 or go mid-week. Many mid-range Auckland restaurants operate BYO (bring your own bottle of wine), which brings the total cost of a sit-down dinner to well under what you'd pay at a licensed venue — look for the BYO notice in the window or on the menu.

The Seafood Collective

Mt EdenA modern take on the traditional chippie offering a "Select your Catch" option. It bridges the gap between a takeaway and a seafood bistro.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Kohi Fresh Fish

KohimaramaThe go-to spot for a beach day in the Eastern Bays. The fish is consistently sweet and flaky, and eating it on the sand across the road is a classic ritual.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Tipene’s Takeaways

MorningsideKnown for using exceptionally high-quality ingredients and maintaining a very clean, modern shop. Their chips are widely considered some of the best in the central suburbs.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Sanford & Sons

Wynyard QuarterRun by one of the country’s oldest fishing companies, serving fish that was likely swimming that morning. The quality of the raw product is unbeatable here.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Local

Waiheke IslandThe best place for fish and chips on the island with an incredibly light batter. They often use fish caught by local island fishermen.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Oceanz Seafood

AlbanyA very reliable and high-quality chain that has stalls in many major Auckland markets. Their premium catch of the day is always worth the extra few dollars.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Mission Bay Cafe

Mission BayWhile a full cafe, their takeaway window serves fish and chips designed to be eaten on the iconic Mission Bay grass. It is a mandatory experience for visitors.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

John-Dory’s

Herne BayA modern, upscale chippie that focuses on sustainable fishing and very high-quality oils. Their batter is light and crisp, appealing to the health-conscious local demographic.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Marsic Bros

Glen InnesA true Auckland institution since 1967 known for its exceptionally fresh fish. Their batter recipe is a closely guarded family secret that has stood the test of time.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Central Fisheries

OnehungaFrequently wins community awards for having some of the crispiest batter in the city. It is thin and light, never holding excess oil.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Greenwoods Fresh Seafood

EpsomA long-standing local favorite known for its consistent quality and old-school hospitality. They take great pride in their batter and the freshness of their oil.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Fishsmith

Herne BayThe leader of the gourmet fish and chip movement in the city. They use premium oils and high-grade fish to elevate the humble takeaway.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Ancient Mariner

Mt EdenOffers a more British-leaning experience with slightly thicker chips than the local norm. They also serve traditional sides like pickled onions.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Point Chevalier Fisheries

Pt ChevalierA neighborhood staple that has served generations of locals heading to the nearby family-friendly beach. It is a classic, no-frills Kiwi experience.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Northcote Point Fish & Chips

NorthcoteFamous for its historic setting and for having some of the best views of the harbor bridge while you eat. The quality is reliable and traditional.

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Depot

SkyCityAl Brown’s iconic eatery. Their Pāua ravioli is a permanent fixture on the menu, filled with a rich Pāua mousse and served in a light lemon butter sauce.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Duo

BirkenheadHome of the most famous Pāua dish in Auckland right now. Their savoury Pāua Doughnut is a fluffy, fried dough ball filled with a rich, creamy Pāua mixture.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Ahi

Commercial BayChef Ben Bayly’s love letter to NZ produce. They often serve Pāua in sophisticated ways, treating it as a world-class ingredient with modern techniques.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Homeland

Wynyard QuarterPeter Gordon is a legend of fusion cuisine. At Homeland, he serves a refined version of creamed Pāua on toast that is both nostalgic and incredibly high-end.

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Auckland Fish Market

Wynyard QuarterIf you want to see Pāua in its raw form or buy it to cook yourself, this is the place. Several stalls also serve Pāua fritters for a casual street-food experience.

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Soul Bar & Bistro

Viaduct HarbourSoul is an Auckland institution. They often feature Pāua as a seasonal special, pan-seared with local seaweeds or as part of a luxurious seafood platter.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Captain Kai Moana

Food TruckFor the most authentic community experience. They serve classic creamed Pāua on fried bread, which is messy, rich, and deeply traditional.

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Baduzzi

Wynyard QuarterFamous for its Pāua Tortellini. It is a beautiful example of how New Zealand’s finest ingredients can be integrated into classic international techniques.

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Kingi

BritomartA restaurant dedicated to sustainable, local seafood. Their Pāua is often served simply, highlighting the natural quality of the product without over-complication.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Gilt Brasserie

City BowlA high-end brasserie where Pāua is often featured as a luxury seasonal special. It is treated with classic techniques that respect its unique flavor profile.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Mudbrick Vineyard

Waiheke IslandOne of the most beautiful settings in Auckland. Their Pāua dishes are elegantly presented and consistently highly rated by local and international guests.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Lodge Bar & Dining

Commercial BayA sophisticated spot where Pāua is often featured in contemporary, creative ways. It offers a more relaxed but still very high-end way to sample the delicacy.

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Oyster & Chop

Viaduct HarbourWhile famous for oysters, their Pāua preparations are a popular way to sample the delicacy. They often feature it in rich, creamy sauces that complement the black foot.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Onslow

City BowlAnother Josh Emett masterpiece where every ingredient is treated with extreme precision. Their Pāua is often paired with interesting local ferments to create a unique dish.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Tantalus Estate

Waiheke IslandA luxury vineyard restaurant where Pāua is often served as part of a multi-course tasting menu. The presentation is as stunning as the vineyard views.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Occidental

City BowlThe spiritual home of the mussel in the city. This historic Belgian beer café serves massive pots of mussels in a dozen different styles.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Swashbucklers

Westhaven MarinaA gritty, honest, and high-volume seafood restaurant right on the marina. This is where locals go for large portions and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Oyster Inn

Waiheke IslandA chic island spot where the mussels are as fresh as they get. They are served with great views and pair perfectly with local Waiheke white wine.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Vinnie’s

Herne BayA local favorite that has been serving high-quality mussels to the neighborhood for years. It is known for its polished service and refined classic broths.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Ponsonby Road Bistro

PonsonbyConsistently excellent for many years. Their mussels are always perfectly cleaned and served in a sophisticated broth that demands bread for dipping.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Engine Room

Northcote PointA destination restaurant where every ingredient, including the mussels, is treated with world-class care. Their preparation is classic and flawless.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Belgian Beer Café

Mission BaySimilar to The Occidental but with the benefit of a beachside location. They serve the same high-quality mussel pots in a relaxed environment.

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The Glasshouse

MorningsideA beautiful, airy setting filled with plants where mussels are a centerpiece of their menu. The broth is often creative and changes with the seasons.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Prego

PonsonbyA Ponsonby institution where the mussels are a staple of the social dining experience. They are served in a rich tomato and garlic broth that is a local favorite.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Tony's Lord Nelson

City BowlA nostalgic choice serving the city since the 1960s. Their garlic mussels are a classic preparation that hasn't changed in decades, reliable and comforting.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Cav

PonsonbyA historic pub where a "pot of mussels and a pint" is a local weekend tradition. The atmosphere is casual and the portions are generous.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Hāngī Shop

ŌtāhuhuOne of the few dedicated commercial hāngī shops in the city. While it is shop-prepared, they stay as true as possible to traditional flavor profiles with generous portions.

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Pukekohe Hill

PukekoheA bit of a drive south from the city center, but on weekends you can often find local community groups selling authentic pit-cooked hāngī.

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Ōtara Market

ŌtaraThe cultural heart of South Auckland. On Saturday mornings, several stalls serve hāngī that is often closer to home-cooked quality than any restaurant.

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Hāngī Master

Various Pop-UpsRewi Spraggon (The Hāngī Master) is on a mission to bring authentic earth-cooked hāngī back to the people. His team often sets up at major city events.

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Kiwi Kai

Various LocationsA well-regarded Māori catering business that frequently pops up at food festivals. Their hāngī is known for its balance of flavors and high-quality local produce.

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Avondale Market

AvondaleAuckland’s largest Sunday market. The food stalls at the back are a treasure trove, and you can almost always find a stall serving authentic hāngī.

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Glen Innes Night Market

Glen InnesA fantastic spot to find community-made hāngī that is authentic, smoky, and very affordable. It reflects the diverse cultural makeup of the area.

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Mangere Market

MangereAnother Saturday morning market that is a stronghold for traditional Māori and Pasifika food. Local families often sell authentic hāngī portions here.

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Manukau City Centre

ManukauOn weekends, keep an eye out for temporary stalls in the Manukau area serving traditional hāngī. These are often run by local community or church groups.

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Clevedon Village Farmers Market

ClevedonA great place to find artisanal hāngī producers alongside some of the best fresh produce in the wider Auckland region.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Te Pā Tū

Rotorua (Road trip stop)An immersive journey through Māori history, culminating in a traditional hāngī feast. They emphasize the storytelling aspect of the meal.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Blue Rose Cafe

SandringhamFor a modern, portable take on the tradition, Blue Rose is world-famous for their Hāngī Pie. It contains all the essential elements tucked into a flaky pastry.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Māori Kitchen

various locationsA popular pop-up service that brings high-quality, traditional hāngī to various events around the city. They focus on premium ingredients and authentic technique.

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Te Puia

Rotorua (Road trip stop)While a drive from Auckland, this is the gold standard for travelers. They serve a magnificent hāngī buffet cooked using natural geothermal steam.

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Auckland Museum

ParnellTheir cafe often features dishes inspired by traditional Māori cooking methods and ingredients. During special events, they may serve a refined version of hāngī.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Richoux Patisserie

EllerslieWidely considered one of the best bakeries in the country. They consistently win national pie awards across multiple categories.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Ashby Pies

St HeliersA suburban favorite that has a cult following for its Steak and Cheese. They use high-quality cuts of meat that are slow-cooked in a rich gravy.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Beabea’s Bakery

WestmereA hidden gem that is frequently cited on local food forums. Their pies are honest, well-made, and represent the very best of the neighborhood bakery tradition.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Target Pies

PakurangaA local favorite in East Auckland known for its massive range and very consistent pastry quality. It is a staple of the area for quick lunches.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Fridge

KingslandA trendy cafe that serves high-end, "gourmet" pies with creative fillings like Beef and Blue Cheese. The atmosphere is more polished than a standard bakery.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Better Half

Mt EdenA modern bakery that focuses on small-batch, high-quality pies with a very refined pastry. It appeals to the village demographic seeking quality over quantity.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Daily Bread

Point ChevalierWhile famous for sourdough, their meat pies are a gourmet revelation. They use high-quality meats and a very buttery crust that sets them apart.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Mairangi Bay Bakery

Mairangi BayIf you want to eat a "champion" pie, this is the place. Their Mince and Cheese is a consistent gold-medal winner in the national awards.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Baker’s Cottage

KingslandA classic neighborhood bakery that serves some of the best value-for-money pies in the central suburbs. It is a favorite for local students and workers.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Ponsonby Pies

PonsonbyA local institution that has been serving the upscale Ponsonby neighborhood for decades. Their pies are classic and reliably executed.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Wild Grain Bakery

SilverdaleA destination bakery north of the city that is famous for its award-winning traditional pies. The crust is exceptionally flaky.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Muzza’s Pies

Mt AlbertA legendary, no-frills local institution serving the community since the 1990s. Muzza’s is known for hearty, high-volume pies that are unapologetically classic.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Green Bay Bakery

Green BayA West Auckland favorite that represents the grit and honesty of the region. Their pies are substantial, affordable, and made with community pride.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

PieFee

City Bowl (K' Road)A modern, creative take on the pie shop located on the iconic K' Road. While they are famous for their dessert gimmicks, their savory pies are high-quality.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Saint Alice

Viaduct HarbourA trendy, elevated venue with a fantastic raw bar. They focus on modern, social dining, and their oysters are served as part of larger share plates.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Depot Eatery & Oyster Bar

City BowlThe absolute spiritual home of the oyster in Auckland. Al Brown’s raw bar is legendary for its speed and skill in shucking to order.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Shucker Brothers

Ferry BuildingA dedicated oyster bar that is perfect for a quick, high-quality fix. It is smaller and more intimate than the larger waterfront restaurants.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Harbourside Ocean Grill

City BowlA classic choice for those who want their oysters with a side of historic Auckland charm. The views over the ferry terminal are unmatched.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Blue Breeze Inn

PonsonbyWhile primarily a Chinese-fusion restaurant, they often feature seasonal NZ ingredients with a modern, spicy twist during whitebait season.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Fisherman's Wharf

Northcote PointA great spot on the North Shore for classic seafood. Their whitebait fritters are traditional and well-regarded by local residents.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Cibo

ParnellCibo’s Pavlova is considered by many critics to be the best in the country. It is a permanent fixture on the menu with rotating creative toppings.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Amano

BritomartAmano’s dedication to New Zealand seasonality means they often feature a spectacular Pavlova when local berries are at their peak.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Batch Winery

Waiheke IslandFamous for their "Smashed Pavlova." It is a less formal, more indulgent take on the dessert where the meringue is broken and folded.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Milse

BritomartMilse often incorporates Pavlova elements into their highly sophisticated plated desserts, showcasing the meringue in a modern way.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Orbit 360°

Sky TowerFor the traveler, eating a Pavlova at the top of the Sky Tower is the ultimate New Zealand moment, executing a classic preparation reliably.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Sugar Club

Sky TowerLocated just above Orbit, The Sugar Club offers a more creative, chef-driven take on the dessert with unexpected flavor pairings.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Miann

BritomartMiann’s desserts are works of art. Their Pavlova-inspired creations are often part of their seasonal collection with perfectly piped meringue.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Federal Delicatessen

City BowlA NYC-style deli that serves a surprisingly good, rustic Pavlova as part of their dessert pie selection. It is hearty and unpretentious.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Andiamo

Herne BayA refined neighborhood bistro that serves a very elegant and beautifully presented Pavlova. It is a favorite for the local Herne Bay demographic.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Jervois Steak House

Herne BayWhile primarily a steakhouse, they treat NZ lamb with the same reverence, serving premium cuts that are perfectly aged.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Cassia

SkyCityTheir Indian-spiced lamb is a wonderful twist on the traditional New Zealand flavor profile, offering something unique in the city.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Sid at The French Cafe

Eden TerraceFor the ultimate fine-dining lamb experience. Every element is technically perfect and showcases the chef's masterclass in technique.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Strawberry Corner

AlfristonA legendary destination for Real Fruit Ice Cream during the summer months when the berries are freshly picked.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Creamery

Grey LynnTheir Hokey Pokey is a more artisanal, high-end take on the classic supermarket favorite, using premium local milk.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Island Gelato Co.

Ferry BuildingTheir Hokey Pokey is a sophisticated, creamy version that is a favorite for commuters and visitors alike.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

The Store at Britomart

BritomartA convenient city-center spot for high-quality, creamy local ice cream that is perfect for a quick break.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Silo Park

Wynyard QuarterA great place to find different local artisanal ice cream producers popping up during the weekend summer markets.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Cornwall Park

EpsomEnjoy a high-quality ice cream in the middle of a working farm in the city center. It is a favorite for families.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Devonport

DevonportA nostalgic spot to grab a cone while waiting for the ferry back to the city from the historic suburb.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Zavy’s

AlbanyA popular chain that serves a very consistent and high-quality real fruit ice cream in major commercial centers.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Duck Island Ice Cream

PonsonbyA trendy spot with very creative flavors, including a fantastic Hokey Pokey variant that appeals to the local demographic.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Takapuna Beach Cafe

TakapunaTheir award-winning gelato is a North Shore institution, served from a dedicated window with great sea views.

Order: Signature order

+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Giapo

City BowlFamous for their Hokey Pokey and incredible, architectural ice cream creations that push the boundaries of food art.

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+80 XP0 recordsMaps

Phil Greig Strawberry Farm

KumeūOne of the best places in West Auckland for a "Pick Your Own" experience followed by a real fruit ice cream.

Order: Signature order

+80 XP0 recordsMaps

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