Rotorua, a gem nestled in New Zealand’s North Island, is widely known for its geothermal wonders and rich Maori culture. But as I discovered, this city has a culinary scene that’s as intriguing and vibrant as its landscapes. From traditional hangi feasts to modern Kiwi innovations, Rotorua’s food offerings tell a story of heritage, creativity, and an undeniable love for local ingredients. Here’s a detailed account of my gastronomic journey through Rotorua, focusing on must-try dishes, personal experiences, and the unique charm of each culinary destination.
Traditional Maori Hangi Feast at Tamaki Maori Village
The highlight of my culinary adventure in Rotorua was experiencing a traditional Maori hangi at Tamaki Maori Village. This cultural experience was more than just a meal—it was an immersive dive into Maori traditions, storytelling, and community.
The hangi is a centuries-old cooking method where food is prepared underground using heated stones. As the hangi pit was uncovered, a cloud of fragrant steam wafted into the air, revealing perfectly cooked meats and vegetables. The anticipation was palpable among the guests as we watched the steaming baskets of lamb, chicken, and kumara (sweet potato) being carefully lifted out.
When it was finally time to eat, I was struck by the depth of flavor in every bite. The lamb was tender, falling off the bone with the slightest touch of a fork, and the kumara had an earthy sweetness that was incredibly comforting. For dessert, there was a rich steamed pudding drizzled with golden caramel sauce, providing a warm, sweet finish to an unforgettable meal.
Geothermal Corn at Hell’s Gate
Rotorua’s geothermal activity influences not only its landscapes but also its cuisine. At Hell’s Gate, a famous geothermal park, I had the opportunity to try corn cooked in natural hot springs.
I watched as ears of corn were submerged in bubbling, mineral-rich water. After just a few minutes, the corn was ready to eat. Served hot, with a dollop of butter melting into the kernels, it had a slight mineral tang that added to its natural sweetness. Standing amidst steaming vents and mud pools, enjoying this geothermal delicacy felt like a uniquely Rotorua experience.
Lamb and Mint Pie from Patrick’s Pie Shop
New Zealand is renowned for its love of savory pies, and Rotorua offers some of the best. At Patrick’s Pie Shop, I discovered the magic of their lamb and mint pie—a local favorite that came highly recommended by both locals and travelers.
The pie’s crust was golden, flaky, and buttery, giving way to a rich, savory filling. The lamb was slow-cooked, tender, and infused with the freshness of mint. Every bite was a harmonious blend of hearty flavors that felt like a warm embrace on a chilly Rotorua morning. I paired it with a flat white, a quintessential Kiwi coffee, making this a meal I’ll remember for a long time.
Kiwifruit Gelato at Lady Jane’s Ice Cream Parlour
Rotorua’s sunny days call for something cool and refreshing, and I found just the thing at Lady Jane’s Ice Cream Parlour. Located near the Rotorua Lakefront, this charming ice cream shop is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Their kiwifruit gelato immediately caught my eye. Vibrant green, with flecks of real fruit throughout, it was a celebration of New Zealand’s iconic fruit. The gelato was smooth and creamy, with a tangy sweetness that felt like biting into a fresh kiwifruit. Served with a thin slice of the fruit on top, it was as photogenic as it was delicious. Enjoying it while taking in views of Lake Rotorua was a moment of pure bliss.
Seafood Extravaganza at Terrace Kitchen
For a more upscale dining experience, I headed to Terrace Kitchen, a contemporary restaurant known for its focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their seafood platter was a standout on the menu and the perfect way to sample New Zealand’s coastal bounty.
The platter was a work of art, featuring plump green-lipped mussels, tender scallops, grilled prawns, and delicately smoked fish. Each component was cooked to perfection, allowing the natural flavors of the seafood to shine. The mussels, in particular, stood out with their juicy texture and briny sweetness. Paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from a nearby winery, this meal was a true indulgence.
Kumara Chips at Rotorua Night Market
On Thursday evening, I made my way to the Rotorua Night Market, a lively weekly event filled with food stalls, live music, and local crafts. One snack that quickly became my favorite was kumara chips—a Kiwi twist on the classic French fry.
The chips were thick-cut, golden, and slightly caramelized from the natural sweetness of the kumara. They were served hot, with a side of tangy garlic aioli for dipping. The combination of crispy edges and soft interiors was addictive. I found myself going back for a second serving, savoring them while exploring the vibrant market stalls.
Pavlova at Picnic Cafe
No visit to New Zealand is complete without tasting pavlova, the country’s iconic dessert. I had my first slice at Picnic Cafe, a cozy spot near Government Gardens.
The pavlova was a masterpiece of textures and flavors. Its meringue shell was crisp and delicate, crumbling beautifully under my fork to reveal a marshmallow-like center. Topped with freshly whipped cream, slices of strawberries, kiwifruit, and a drizzle of passionfruit sauce, it was a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Paired with a cup of locally roasted coffee, it was the ideal way to end an afternoon of sightseeing.
Craft Beer and Wood-Fired Pizza at Brew Rotorua
Rotorua’s Eat Streat dining precinct is a hub of culinary activity, and Brew Rotorua quickly became one of my favorite spots. Specializing in craft beer and hearty pub fare, it’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
I tried a flight of their locally brewed beers, ranging from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts. To accompany the drinks, I ordered their wood-fired pizza topped with smoked chicken, cranberry sauce, and melted brie. The combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors was divine, and the wood-fired crust added a smoky, crispy element that tied it all together.
Rotorua’s food scene is a treasure trove of flavors, traditions, and creativity. Each meal I enjoyed offered not just nourishment but also a deeper connection to the region’s unique character. Whether it was the soulful comfort of a hangi feast, the refreshing sweetness of kiwifruit gelato, or the bold flavors of a seafood platter, every dish told a story.
For fellow food lovers, Rotorua is a destination that promises culinary adventures as memorable as its geothermal wonders.
