How did this opportunity arise?
What do you like most about visiting New Zealand?
How would you describe Kiwi cuisine in general?
Did you do anything else besides eat and drink during this tour?
Sara S. at Ahi in Auckland
How did this opportunity arise?
Sara S.: Tourism New Zealand( TNZ) invited me to join a small group of travel advisors, writers and influencers to take a culinary tour around the North Island to celebrate the release of the inaugural New Zealand Michelin Guide. Since I’ ve visited the country 14 times(!) and used to work for TNZ in their Los Angeles office, I know New Zealand better than most. It’ s my absolute favorite place in the world.
Kiwi cuisine
What do you like most about visiting New Zealand?
SS: It combines everything I love: welcoming people, relaxed vibes, stunning scenery, outdoor adventures and great food and wine. On top of that, you have Māori culture infused in everything, along with more diverse landscapes— white and black-sand beaches, snow-capped mountains, geysers, turquoise lakes, fiords, glaciers, rainforest, vineyards— than one small country has any right to have. You could spend years exploring here.
How would you describe Kiwi cuisine in general?
SS: I know the phrase“ hyperlocal” gets thrown around a lot when talking about food, but it’ s true in New Zealand. The cuisine here is deeply connected to the land and sea. But it goes beyond the fresh, pure, local ingredients thanks to Manaakitanga, the Māori ideal of hospitality, kindness and generosity. Kiwis always make visitors feel like family, and that enhances every dining experience you have. Plus, I’ m vegan, and I appreciate that no one flinches when I say the word! Instead, they are eager to accommodate.
Did you do anything else besides eat and drink during this tour?
SS: So much! We began in Wellington, where our group took the cable car to the top of the hill for stunning views of the city and harbor— it’ s a must-do for all visitors. We also toured Te Papa, New Zealand’ s incredible national museum, with a guide. While there, we enjoyed the Eat Your Art Out high tea at the museum café, where the menu was inspired by the current photography exhibit.
14 CONTACT OUR AGENCY TO BOOK YOUR LUXURY VACATION