Southland Food & Drink

From the finest ocean fare to fantastic farm fresh produce
Southland is a food lovers’ paradise.

With the perfect amount of sunshine and rain, the region’s fertile plains and coastal waters produce many New Zealand delicacies, from world-famous meat and game to succulent seafood and the freshest, crunchiest vegetables. Whether raised or grown on the land, hunted, fished, or produced, Southland’s food story is connected to people and place. It really is the land of plenty, the ultimate Surf ‘n’ Turf destination.

Savour the South

Take your pick of exceptional-tasting grass-fed lamb, prime pasture-fed beef, and the finest Fiordland venison. Talented chefs create divine dishes that are uniquely Southland in vibrant cafes and bakeries, picturesque country pubs, and fine-dining restaurants in down-to-earth settings.

Enjoy mouth-watering seafood, including world-famous Bluff oysters, Stewart Island salmon, Fiordland lobster, mussels, paua and blue cod. 

Juicy and succulent Bluff oysters are pulled up from the pristine, cool waters of the Foveaux Strait, one of the few natural oyster beds in the world and are prized for their unique flavour. We reckon Bluff oysters are the best in the world, but don’t take our word for it; come down and taste them for yourself.

The famous Southland Cheese Roll is a local delicacy and a must-try for any visitor. We recommend multiple tastings to assess the soft crunch of freshly toasted bread, the gooiness of the tasty cheese, and that hint of onion topping it off.

You’ll need to pair your cheese-laden ‘Southland Sushi’ with a stunning, freshly roasted coffee — courtesy of one of Southland’s many artisan coffee roasters.

Where to Eat and Drink in Southland

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to places to eat and drink in Southland. There's an abundance of restaurants, bars, cafes, bakeries and pubs scattered throughout every region, so have your pick. If you're interested in exploring the local culinary scene, take a look at our Murihiku Eats guide for some great recommendations.

Southland Food Icons & Gems

The region’s multicultural diversity has brought new and exciting culinary traditions to our tables. Cauli Bao? Duck Wings? Maybe some Venison Tataki?  

Be delighted at the variety on offer, from sushi bowls and dumplings to wild hare, delicious river-run trout, salmon and whitebait, authentic pizza, and outrageously good, home-style baking. 

Then there are the Southland gems you may not be so familiar with, such as blueberries, saffron, micro-greens, handcrafted gourmet chocolate, Hokonui moonshine whisky, pickles, pies to die for, honey, venison salami and many, many more.

And we can’t forget the humble swede — similar to the turnip, but sweeter and exquisite in a mash with butter. 

Southland’s stellar foodie reputation is fuelled by amazing food producers, cafes, restaurants, bakeries, food trucks and countless others — serving up innovative tastes and textures to surprise, tantalise and delight your taste buds.