New Zealand is renowned for its premium seafood, and many visitors come to the country every year to enjoy an incredible culinary experience. From succulent salmon to tender scallops and spiny lobster tails, there’s no shortage of delicious local seafood dishes to indulge in. Whether you’re a seafood fan in search of local delicacies or a curious traveller looking to explore New Zealand’s seafood offerings, this guide will help you discover the country’s best seafood.
Where to Find Fresh New Zealand Seafood
For the freshest seafood catches, head to the bustling seafood markets in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. The Viaduct Harbour is a popular area to visit and well worth the journey, with a wide selection of fish, shellfish, and seafood specialties on offer. From Auckland, you can take a drive up to the Mahurangi for some of the freshest produce around. Here, you’ll find the Mahurangi Oyster Shed, where you can buy a variety of local seafood in an authentic Kiwi atmosphere.
Types of Seafood Available
New Zealand offers a range of unique seafood species, all with their own unique flavor and texture. Among the most popular seafood options are:
- Salmon – This species of fish is widely available in New Zealand, with farmed and wild salmon both available. It is high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D.
- Softshell Crab – These crabs are local to New Zealand, found mainly in the South Island. Enjoy them fried for a delicious snack or served in pasta dishes.
- Scallops – Plump, sweet scallops are one of the most popular seafoods in the country. Try them pan-seared and served with citrus.
- Green Mussels – Mussels have become a staple in New Zealand, and you can find them served in restaurants, pubs and fishmongers across the country.
- Lobster – New Zealand is known for its abundant lobsters, available in both cooked and live form. Lobster tails are particularly sought after, with their succulent flavor.
Aside from these popular seafood items, there are also many other types of fish and shellfish to sample in New Zealand. Popular catches include yellowtail kingfish, hoki, snapper, tarakihi, and bluenose, among others.
Where to Enjoy Seafood Dishes
New Zealand is home to an array of fantastic seafood restaurants, from Michelin-starred eateries to casual seafood shacks. Here’s a selection of places you can enjoy some great seafood dishes in New Zealand:
- The Grove Restaurant – Located in Auckland, The Grove is renowned for its modern Euro-Asian fusion dishes. Try their signature seafood platter, which comes with fresh fish, scallops, and more.
- Seafood Bistro – This restaurant in Wellington offers an array of classic seafood dishes, such as grilled fish and chips and pan-seared salmon.
- The Mussel Pot – Located in Akaroa on the South Island, The Mussel Pot is a cosy seafood restaurant serving up delicious mussel dishes and more.
- The Fish Trader – This Viaduct Harbour seafood restaurant is a great spot for sampling some of the freshest catches available.
No matter where you go in New Zealand, you’re guaranteed to find some of the best seafood dishes around. With its abundance of delicious fish, shellfish, and other seafood options, New Zealand is a seafood-lover’s paradise.
