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NZ cuisine epitomises ‘Pacific Rim’ cuisine inspired by an amalgam of European, Asian and Polynesian food styles. NZ lamb and dairy products are known worldwide as are some of the new wines produced locally.
Immigrants from India, Middle East, Italy, Mexico, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, China and Polynesia have not only brought their food styles but have opened restaurants. Though adapted to local palettes, there is a huge variety of authentic international dining options.
Watch out for the seafood – salmon, Paua (abalone) mussels, Bluff oysters, scallops, crayfish, all kinds of saltwater fish, eels are aplenty of very good quality and fresh from the sea. Also don’t forgo eating some of the local specialities like tamorillo, kumara, kiwi fruit or the local venison, pork and lamb.
Sweet Tooth Alert! A Kiwi chef created that superlative dessert- the Pavlova- in honour of the famous Ballerina Anna Pavlova. It’s a dream confection of meringue and fresh fruits with lashings of cream! Do try the authentic version with kiwi fruit and berries.
Wine and beer are the two tipples to drink. Steinlager and Lion Red are popular beers, though all places have their own beer. Wines, especially Chardonnay and sauvignon Blanc are excellent. Plan a visit to a vineyard and taste /buy some of its products. The Kiwi Fruit Wine is a speciality; try it because you won't get it anywhere else in the world.
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