Food
New Zealand’s traditional cuisine is a unique blend of Māori heritage and European influences, shaped by local ingredients, fresh seafood, and earthy cooking methods. From the smoky flavours of hāngī to the sweetness of pavlova and the comfort of classic meat pies, Kiwi food reflects the country’s culture, history, and love of simple, hearty meals. Whether you’re trying Māori dishes for the first time or exploring modern Kiwi favourites, New Zealand’s food traditions offer a warm, authentic taste of the nation.
Hāngī (Traditional Māori Earth Oven Meal)
Home-Friendly Recipe (Oven Version):
Ingredients:
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Chicken pieces or lamb
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Kumara (sweet potato), potatoes, carrots
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Pumpkin, cabbage
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Salt, pepper, herbs (thyme/rosemary)
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Method:
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Preheat oven to 160°C.
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Place meat and vegetables on a tray and season well.
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Cover tightly with foil to trap steam.
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Slow-cook for 2.5–3 hours until tender and smoky-flavoured.
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Serve with gravy or stuffing.
Pavlova
Quick Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 egg whites
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1 cup sugar
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1 tsp vinegar
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1 tsp vanilla
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1 tsp cornflour
Method:
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Beat egg whites until stiff.
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Slowly add sugar until glossy.
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Fold in vinegar, vanilla, and cornflour.
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Shape on a baking tray and bake at 120°C for 1.5 hours.
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Top with whipped cream + berries or kiwi fruit.
Kiwi Meat Pie
Ingredients:
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Puff pastry
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500 g minced beef
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1 onion, diced
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1 cup beef stock
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1 tbsp flour
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Salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce
Method:
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Cook onion + mince in a pan.
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Add flour, stock, and sauces; simmer until thick.
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Line muffin tin with pastry, add filling, top with pastry.
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Bake at 200°C for 20–25 mins.
ANZAC Biscuits
Recipe:
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1 cup oats
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1 cup flour
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1 cup sugar
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1 cup coconut
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125 g butter
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2 tbsp golden syrup
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1 tsp baking soda + 2 tbsp boiling water
Mix dry ingredients, melt butter + syrup, combine everything, bake at 160°C for 15 mins.
