Eat Your Way Around the Bay of Plenty

1. Breweries and Distilleries

Every good food experience includes a perfectly paired fine brew. When eating your way around the Bay of Plenty, be sure to check out the quirky and creative craft beer and fine spirits scene.

Start your journey at The Rising Tide, the home of Mount Brewing Co. in Mount Maunganui, where you can enjoy a diverse range of craft beers in a laid-back atmosphere. From hoppy IPAs to smooth lagers, there’s something to suit every taste. Head over to The Packhouse – Lumberjack Brewing in Te Puke for a taste of their robust and flavourful brews, crafted with traditional brewing techniques that bring a rustic charm to the local scene.

For those looking for a unique twist, Mata Brewery in Whakatāne incorporates native New Zealand ingredients into their recipes, resulting in standout offerings like their Taniwha beer brewed with kawakawa leaves. The Island Brewery, situated on a picturesque site in Pāpāmoa, offers a serene environment to enjoy eco-friendly and sustainably crafted beers.

Gin lovers shouldn’t miss Clarity Gin, known for its small-batch gins that highlight the purity and clarity of their ingredients. Meanwhile, Matahui Distillery and Wilderkin Spirits provide a range of artisanal spirits, from exquisite whiskeys and vodkas to bold, experimental concoctions that push the boundaries of flavour.

Armada and Distillerie Denleinn are also noteworthy stops, each offering refined and elegant spirits crafted with meticulous care. For a sweet, refreshing alternative, Wai Manuka’s manuka honey beverages provide a delightful end to your tasting tour.

2. Self-Guided Foodie Tour

Commit to your foodie holiday with a self-guided tour of the region’s best eateries and experiences. This is the ultimate way to uncover the secrets to the success of local restaurateurs and growers – a food journey tailored to suit your taste. Whether it’s all about fine dining or you’re sticking to a street-food vibe, a tour of the Bay’s best food offerings is sure to be a fantastic adventure.

Start your journey in Waihī Beach, with coffee and a freshly baked bagel at Hui. Indulge in the products of some specialised crafts like Swiss chocolate making at Chez Moi, lunch at the beach (almost) at Flatwhite Cafe, wine at Leveret & Mills Reef Winery and a claim to fame for the region, an avocado orchard tour in Katikati at Avocado Tours.

Make a stop into Ōmokoroa to visit spots like Alma Eatery, a dreamy Italian restaurant near the waterfront, and The Cider Factorie in Te Puna for a tasting paddle. Next up, find yourself in the bustling hubs of Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. Grab your morning pastry and coffee from Breadhead, food cooked with fire for lunch at Picnicka and enjoy dinner at Solera, a wine bar in Mount Maunganui. Check out Sailor for a lunch date too, and Sea People for plant-based ice cream!

Continue cruising down the coast to Pāpāmoa for a tasty lunch and sweet treat from Henry & Ted before some delicious Southeast Asian food in the outdoor garden setting at Lantern. You’ll find plenty of foodie gems in this area of Bay of Plenty. Venture inland to Paengaroa for lunch at The Trading Post, the Bays charming little country restaurant serving up fantastic Italian fare. Indulge in a burger in Te Puke at The Packhouse – Lumberjack Brewery.

Find yourself in the Eastern Bay towns of Matatā, Ōhope Beach and Whakatāne for the finale of your self-guided foodie tour. Here you’ll find gems like cheese rolls from Drift Store, pastries from L’Atelier and a harbour cruise and oyster shucking experience with Tio Ōhiwa Oyster and Harbour Cruises. Don’t miss dinner at Cigol for an evening of Pacific-Korean fusion dishes.

This week-long food tour encompasses a bit of all the greats from Waihī Beach to Ōhope Beach. Get more inspiration for a foodie tour here.

3. Truffles

The Bay of Plenty is not only known for its stunning beaches and vibrant food scene but also for its hidden gem: truffles. These prized fungi, often referred to as “black gold,” offer a unique and luxurious culinary experience during the winter months.

For the ultimate in foodie adventures in the Bay of Plenty, check out the truffle hunting and lunch experience with Te Puke Truffles. They have teamed up with Kitchen Takeover and St Amand to bring you an event that brings together the magic of truffle hunting on a lifestyle farm with the joy of eating truffle-forward dishes at a fantastic Tauranga venue.

Ohiwa Black Diamonds offer tours of their truffière; a must-do experience between Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki. Roam the grounds and discover how these beauties grow and how they are harvested. Truffle hunting in the Bay of Plenty is a unique adventure that takes you to locals backyards. Guided by expert truffle hunters and their specially trained dogs, you’ll embark on a quest to unearth these aromatic treasures. The thrill of the hunt, combined with the beautiful winter landscape, makes for an unforgettable experience.

If you’re not visiting a truffière, you can hunt down this unique fungus at a local eatery. Once the truffles are found, the real magic begins in the kitchen. Local restaurants and chefs in the Bay of Plenty take pride in incorporating freshly harvested truffles into their menus, creating dishes that highlight the rich, earthy flavors of this delicacy. From truffle-infused oils and butters to gourmet truffle dishes, the culinary possibilities are endless.

Visitors can also purchase fresh truffles and truffle products from local markets and specialty shops. These make perfect souvenirs or gifts, allowing you to bring a taste of the Bay of Plenty’s unique truffle experience back home.

4. Desserts in the Bay

Mount Maunganui, a jewel in the Bay of Plenty, is the hub most loved for surfing, beach days and its delectable gelato scene. This coastal paradise is a must-visit destination for dessert lovers. One of the standout experiences is devouring a scoop (or two) of handcrafted ice cream from local favorites like Monte Gelato, Polar Dessert Bar, Copenhagen Cones and Mount Made. For incredible plant-based ice cream stop in at Sea People.

Real fruit ice cream is a thing of pure Kiwi summer bliss, and it’s hard to beat the real fruit ice cream that comes out of the Bay of Plenty. Get cones of fresh, fruity goodness from Black Stump between Pāpāmoa and Te Puke, Blueberry Corner near Whakatāne and the classic Big Avocado in Katikati.

5. Coffee at the Beach

One of the quintessential experiences in the Bay of Plenty is enjoying a perfect cup of coffee while taking in the stunning views. The region’s coastal towns offer a range of cafes where you can relax with a delicious brew and the sound of waves crashing in the background.

Start your coffee journey at Sandbank in Pāpāmoa, a unique spot that serves up great coffee and smoothies from their 1986 Bedford van. Sandbank takes the meaning of beachfront cafe to the next level, located right on the sandy shores at Pāpāmoa Domain.

Another must-visit is Flatwhite Cafe at Waihī Beach, where you can enjoy ocean views with a laid-back vibe. Known for its robust coffee and delicious brunch options, Flatwhite Cafe is the perfect place to soak in the essence of the Bay of Plenty.

For those who seek coffee-related experiences while on holiday, the Bay of Plenty won’t disappoint. The various coffee roasters in the region take their work seriously, producing tasty cups of espresso. Attend a soft brew workshop at Excelso, enjoy a coffee-tasting session at Little Drum and pick up some freshly roasted beans from Folk.

6. Local Farmers Markets

Find the best produce, bespoke products and passionate people at the local farmers markets across the Bay of Plenty. Early mornings spent strolling these markets is the perfect start to any day and a great insight into which foods the region is known for.

One of the most popular markets is the Tauranga Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning. Here, you’ll find an impressive selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, handcrafted cheeses, homemade preserves, and baked goods. The market is also a great place to stock up on unique local products like truffles, macadamias, and specialty salts. The lively atmosphere, combined with the friendly vendors, makes shopping here a joy.

For a truly local experience, visit the Katikati Produce Market. This smaller, community-focused market offers a more intimate setting where you can engage directly with the growers and producers. It’s a fantastic spot to find seasonal produce, fresh flowers, and artisanal crafts. The market is also known for its delicious ready-to-eat foods, making it an ideal place to grab a bite while you shop.

If you’re in Whakatāne, the Sunday Market is the ideal place to stock up on fresh produce for the days ahead.

Check out what markets are on in the Mount and all around the region here.

7. Restaurant Scene

Great food makes a holiday memorable. Find the best restaurants in the Bay of Plenty for memorable nights of wining and dining. Start your restaurant journey at Fife Lane Kitchen & Bar, recently named the 69th best steakhouse in the world. Known for its exceptional steaks and fantastic atmosphere, Fife Lane offers an unmatched dining experience. When in Mount Maunganui, Solera is a must-visit. This funky wine bar serves incredible chargrilled food in a relaxed, inviting setting.

Harbourside, located by the water in Tauranga, offers stunning views alongside its exquisite seafood dishes, making it a perfect spot for a date-night dinner or a special occasion. Picnicka provides a more casual yet equally scrumptious dining experience and serves as a hub for the community from morning to night. For a relaxed brunch or dinner with a view, head to Flatwhite, a beloved beachfront cafe and restaurant that serves delicious meals throughout the day.

Cigol offers a tasty fusion of Korean and New Zealand food, with bold and exciting flavours in a cosy setting. Alpino brings a taste of Italy to Mount Maunganui, with its authentic Italian dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Sugo is another Italian gem, known for its fresh pasta and vibrant outdoor seating.

Alma Eatery on the Ōmokoroa waterfront with its stylish décor and delicious menu is a fantastic spot for pizza, pasta and classic Italian favourites like arancini and carpaccio. Somerset Cottage has been a culinary institution in Tauranga for years, renowned for its consistently high-quality food and charming ambiance.

Find even more delectable dining options across the region here.

8. Flavours of Plenty Festival

The Flavours of Plenty Festival is a highlight of the Bay of Plenty’s culinary calendar, celebrating the region’s rich and diverse food culture. Starting on the 27th of March, 2025, this multi-day regional food festival spans the entire Coastal Bay of Plenty, offering an array of events that showcase the best of the area’s produce, people, and places.

Now entering its fourth year, the festival has grown in popularity and scope, attracting food enthusiasts from all over New Zealand and beyond. The Flavours of Plenty Festival features a variety of exciting events, including pop-up restaurants, degustation dinners, workshops, and foodie trails. One of the festival’s standout events is the Plates of Plenty Challenge, where local chefs compete to create the most innovative and delicious dish using regional ingredients.

The festival is designed to celebrate and elevate the Bay of Plenty’s culinary scene, offering a platform for local chefs, producers, and food businesses to shine. Whether you’re attending a hands-on cooking workshop, enjoying a gourmet meal at a pop-up restaurant, or exploring the region’s foodie hotspots on a guided tour, the Flavours of Plenty Festival promises a rich and immersive experience.

In addition to the culinary events, the festival also highlights the region’s commitment to sustainability and local produce. Many of the featured events and dishes focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, supporting the Bay of Plenty’s farmers and producers. This emphasis on local produce not only ensures the highest quality and flavour but also contributes to the region’s sustainable food practices. The festival programme and tickets will be released in February 2025. Mark your calendar for this not-to-be-missed event.

This article was created in paid partnership with Bay of Plenty.