Our Food Icons & Gems
The heart and soul of Murihiku Southland food icons speak of tradition, innovation, and the beauty of this region.
Rakiura Stewart Island salmon, a gift from cold, clear waters, is succulent in taste, world-renowned, and packed full of nutrients. Then there’s the legendary Motupōhue Bluff oysters, exquisite in taste and texture, reminding you that life’s most precious treasures often come from the deep blue. Fancy a taste of the wild side? Te Rua-o-te-moko Fiordland venison steps up to the plate, bold and untamed, just like the landscape it comes from. But don’t stop there – try the humble swede, a down-to-earth vege that’s a reminder of Murihiku Southland’s roots, grounded in tradition. Don’t forget Hokonui Moonshine, a once illicit rebel that whispers secrets of a time when rules were made to be broken.
So come hungry, come curious, and get ready to uncover the food icons and gems that make Murihiku Southland a place where every meal is a journey and every bite has a tale to tell.
A Fusion of Cultures on Your Plate
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 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.
