Restaurants

There are hotel restaurants, and then there are restaurants that just happen to be inside hotels.

Far from the Tex Mex-style Mexican food that has become prolific outside of Mexico, Apapacho is bringing the soul and depth of flavour of this vibrant cuisine to Wellington. 

We’ve brought together three of Aotearoa’s most recognisable creative voices to get a little closer to the people behind the art.

The arrival of the Te Ara Tupua has made getting from Wellington to Lower Hutt much, much easier. Here, Nick Iles outlines all the delicious reasons to make the journey to the Hutt. 

Bex Jujnovich gives us the honest version of what weeknights look like in her house. 

With winter’s indoor-socialising era officially upon us, hosting at home no longer needs to look like a Pinterest board brought violently to life. And we’re here to show you that the best hosts aren’t necessarily the ones making everything from scratch.

For the month of August, Visa Wellington on a Plate turns the capital city into a gastornomical adventure. From pop-ups from acclaimed internatonal chefs like pitmaster Rodney Scott, to Auckland's Pici popping up in Poneke for two nights, outlandish themed dinners and intimate meals with growers and makers, WOAP once again brings all things wonderful to Welly. 

Forget the tourist hubs and ski slopes—these are the secret spots worth planning your trip around. 

If you’ve got 48 hours and a curiosity for art, music, film and performance, this is your sign to make a beeline for Wellington. 

There’s a moment in Wellington when the day starts to soften and the city shifts gears. For our editor, this is Wellington at its best.

From small batch spirits and sweet treats to world-class coffee and fine dining that'll mesmerise eyes and taste buds alike, consider this your guide to 48 hours of seriously good kai.

Your go-to guide for maximising a trip to the Sunshine Coast

There’s a reason why Wellington is Aotearoa’s coolest capital. Among the most (and best) flat whites per corner, beach-side brunch spots and breathtaking walks along the windy hills, Te-Whanganui-a-Tara truly has some of the best restaurants in Aotearoa.

Embark on a sensory journey across Aotearoa’s culinary map—connecting the dots between region, producer, and restaurant. It’s not just where to eat, but why it matters and sharing a kōrero with those turning local treasures into global experiences.

In Te Waipounamu's (South Island) largest city, a quiet transformation is unfolding. Ōtautahi Christchurch's dining scene is redefining New Zealand gastronomy—rooted in resilience post-earthquake, regional produce, and a new generation of chefs who are rewriting the rules.

From locally-sourced produce to award-winning wines—it’s time to put Aotearoa under the spotlight, showcasing the magic that happens when multi-cultural culinary creativity meets incredible produce grown in Aotearoa soil. 

It’s the festive season—or should I say feastin’ season—and if you’re a bit of a sweet tooth who cares more for the pav station than ham this Christmas, read on. 

Buckle up—here’s our hit list of New Zealand spots where the journey and the destination both steal the show.

With thatched-roof farmhouses and world-renowned udon on her must-do in Japan hit-list, we asked Nozomi Inoue for the ultimate run-down on her favourite hotspots.

Wellington’s breakfast game is strong, just like their coffee.