Of course, eating out is very much a part of a New Zealand Holiday and following extensive research by the Silver Fern team (an arduous task!) we’ve come up with our “Top Ten New Zealand Restaurants with a View”.
Naturally, those venues located near the sea or water have the advantage in this regard (not to mention that delicious New Zealand seafood), so you’ll find the Bay of Islands has bagged two spots on our elite list. However, we’ve also included one winery and a city restaurant where you can eat some classic dishes whilst gazing at the wonderful landscape before you.
Some of these choices are also recommendations from Silver Fern Travellers. So, if you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, take a look at each of the restaurant websites and decide if they are for you.
We would recommend booking via their websites, or when you are at the location, particularly if your stay is on a Friday or Saturday night. Bon Appetit!
Auckland
Soul Bar & Bistro
A favourite with Aucklanders, situated in the vibrant Viaduct Harbour with a wide terrace overlooking the harbour – fresh seafood is a feature.
Located on corner of Hobson Street and Customs Street West, Auckland www.soulbar.co.nz
Bay of Islands
Seaside Cafe & Restaurant
Russell’s favourite waterfront restaurant. Its prime location makes it a perfect spot to drop in for a main meal and a drink while enjoying the views and soundtrack of the ocean. Delightfully intimate and relaxed, soak in the atmosphere at your own pace, take in the stunning views whenever the mood takes you and savour this magical moment in time. Whatever your tastes, you’re sure to find something delicious to treat your taste buds to at Seaside.
Established in 2015, bringing a fresh approach to dining in the Bay of Islands – with the best location and a killer view right at the end of the wharf in Paihia. Charlotte’s Kitchen features a range of exciting dinner and lunch menu options – from larger sharing plates to smaller plates if you are not so hungry. Plus, they have a pizza selection hand-crafted with love.
A waterfront restaurant offering a unique style of charcoal oven cooking – chargrilled meats, seafood and vegetables – with a charred finish and smoky aroma.
Mission Estate is an iconic Hawke’s Bay landmark and one of the region’s premier restaurants. Nestled into the side of the Taradale Hills, Mission Estate is situated only 10 minutes from the city centre but is surrounded by green hills, farmland and vineyards. Offering modern New Zealand food from fresh seasonal produce, Mission Estate also has a longstanding reputation for producing quality award-winning wines as New Zealand’s oldest winery.
We first came across Hooked on Marahau in 2004, more out of necessity than choice; all the eating places in Kaiteriteri, where we were staying, were closed and so we ventured down the coast to Marahau.
Driving along a narrow track towards the sea, things did not look promising – but we turned a corner and there it was, set back from the road and serving the best fish and chips we had enjoyed for a long time.
It’s very much a family affair, run by the Alborn family who like to keep their customers happy with typical Kiwi banter and good humour.
The views across the Tasman Bay from either of the two-beach house style dining rooms are simply stunning and the interiors house an impressive collection of seashells, driftwood, crayfish pots and other vintage nautical objects.
Located at the Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, the Ocean View Restaurant & Bar offers visitors a luxury dining experience in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful locations. Watch the sunset over the Tasman Sea and enjoy the epic views of the Punakaiki Beach and Coastline from your table whilst dining on delicious dishes made from premium New Zealand produce
Kai Whakapai literally translates to good food – and that’s what they’re here for. With exceptional views of Lake Wanaka, and great food to satiate your appetite, they are the locals’ choice for brews, classic Kiwi cuisine, music and general good times.
King of Snake offers the best of Euro-Asian cuisine in a stunning 5-star contemporary setting. Enjoy the panoramic view over Cashel Mall, the Bridge of Remembrance, and the willow-lined banks of the Avon River. Whether you want a full à la carte dining experience, cocktails and nibbles at the bar, or simply a refreshing drink on the deck, King of Snake is sure to delight.
Esplanade Restaurant serves some of the best wood-fired pizzas in Dunedin, the second-largest city on South Island (after Christchurch). Grab a seat by the window for great views of the ocean.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of our favourite scenic restaurants in New Zealand! If you’re planning a New Zealand holiday in 2024 or 2025 and you’d like to know more about any of the locations we’ve listed, just give us a call and we’ll be happy to help!
