This unique blend of influences has created a mouthwatering range of flavours and food available from cafes and restaurants nationwide.

For dishes that have a distinctly New Zealand style look out for lamb, pork and venison; salmon, crayfish, Bluff oysters, paua (abalone), mussels and scallops; kumara (sweet potato); kiwi fruit and tamarillo; and pavlova, our national dessert, made from meringue and lashings of fresh whipped cream topped with fresh fruit or berries.
While the main cities support a few elegant, silver-service restaurants, the trend is towards more relaxed cafe-bar dining. There is a wide variety of international food available including Japanese, Indian, Halal, Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Malaysian, Thai, including more than 900 Asian restaurants throughout New Zealand. New Zealand whites wines, particularly Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, have achieved an international reputation for excellence - and the reds are catching-up fast!

Alcohol

Most night-spots, restaurants and cafes serve liquor 7 days a week. Visitors can purchase alcohol from liquor outlets (beer, wine and spirits) and supermarkets (beer and wine only) 7 days a week. Legally, patrons must be 18 years old to buy alcohol or consume it in a public place, and may be asked for a photo-ID.

Night Life in New Zealand

Lively DJ and band scenes, particularly in the larger cities, have given New Zealand's night life a renewed vibrancy. Visitors will find a variety of night-clubs, cabarets, pubs, concerts and live performances to choose from, and there are also two casinos, in Auckland and Christchurch, which are open 24 hours a day. Casinos can also be found in Dunedin and Queenstown.

Shows
Most cities stage first-class concerts and shows. Theatre, orchestral concerts, ballet, rock and jazz are well represented. For information on upcoming shows and events,

Recommended Clothing

Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and nightspots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.
In summer a light jacket or sweater should be carried in case the weather turns cooler or if visiting the high country. Expect some rain, so a light waterproof jacket or coat is important. Pack warm winter clothing if visiting between May and September.