Adventure awaits above the treetops, followed by magic that happens on your plate! After all your exploring, and thrilling rides in Rotorua, you’re sure to work up quite an appetite! Thankfully, Rotorua is brimming with fantastic snack spots, delicious restaurants, and traditional cuisine. Our Rotorua Zipline Guides are passionate foodies, and here are our must-try eats in this vibrant city.

Experience Traditional Hangi

Rotorua is famous for its rich cultural heritage, and one of the standout experiences is the traditional Māori feast called Hangi. This unique cooking method involves digging a pit in the ground, where heated stones are placed after being warmed by a fire. Baskets of food, wrapped in leaves or tinfoil, are then set atop the stones. The entire setup is covered with earth, trapping the heat and steam to cook the food, imparting a distinct smoky flavour.

For an authentic Hangi experience, check out these favourite spots recommended by our Rotorua Zipline Guides: Mitai Māori Village, Pataka Kai Restaurant, Kai Caff Aye, and Te Pa Tu (formerly known as Tamaki Village).

Kiwi Classic Fish and Chips 

After a long day of activities, sometimes all you want is something quick and satisfying. Rotorua boasts numerous fish and chip shops, serving up fresh fish and crispy chips that are hard to resist. Embrace the local vibe by trying a chip butty—a hot chip sandwich. Take the family down to the Lakefront or one of our top five Rotorua lakes to enjoy your kai by the water.

For a truly delightful fish and chip experience, check out these favourite spots recommended by our Rotorua Zipline Guides: Devon Seafoods, River’s Catch, and the Koutu Fish and Chip Shop.

Treat Yourself to a Meat Pie

No visit to New Zealand is complete without trying a mince and cheese pie, a beloved Kiwi delicacy. Patrick’s Pies is renowned for their delicious pies, boasting a long list of five-star TripAdvisor reviews. If you’re in the mood for a flaky, hearty pie, these bakeries serving the best pies in Rotorua should be on your list! Our Rotorua Zipline Guides are regular customers.

Whittaker’s Chocolate Lovers

Whittaker’s chocolate is, without a doubt, our ultimate favourite! Since 1896, Whittaker’s has been crafting New Zealand’s finest chocolate with care and passion. Thankfully, you can grab a big block of chocolate from supermarkets and service stations across the country. Here’s a glimpse into the favourites of our Rotorua Zipline Guides:

• Jono can’t get enough of the creamy delight of the ‘Creamy Milk’ and the rich ‘Hazella’, a perfect blend of hazelnut and chocolate.
• Waiwhakaata enjoys the delightful crunch of the ‘Berry Biscuit’ and the tropical taste of the ‘Coconut Block’, both bursting with flavour.
• Shane and Danny are big fans of the’ Macadamia Block’, with its smooth chocolate complemented by the satisfying crunch of macadamia nuts.

Whittaker’s truly offers something for every chocolate lover!

Rotorua’s culinary scene has something for everyone, whether you’re craving traditional Māori kai or a quick fish and chips. If you fall in love with Whittaker’s chocolate, it’s a fantastic gift to take home. Enjoy your food adventure in this charming city!