OUR FAVOURITE NEW ZEALAND CHEAP EATS

Take a break from pasta & tomato sauce; here are our top picks for cheap eats around New Zealand. The backpacker budget doesn’t usually stretch so far on the dining out front, but if you're savvy you can get some top meals without breaking the bank. 

PAIHIA

Vinnies Takeaways: You can’t talk about cheap eats in New Zealand without mentioning fish and chips. On the waterfront in Paihia, Vinnies serve up crispy, golden battered fresh fish and enormous scoops of chips.

AUCKLAND

Better Burger: Giving your average greasy burger a face-lift, Better Burger makes juicy, fresh burgers made with locally sourced ingredients. And they don’t cost much more than a Big Mac combo! 

 

 

 

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Ken Yakatori: New Zealand’s first yakitori restaurant is still going strong. Choose from 25 types of skewers of succulent chargrilled meat and other moreish small plates. Get a group together for a budget-friendly Japanese feast.

 

 

 

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For a selection of cheap delicious noodles, bento boxes, spicy curries and more all in one place head to Ponsonby Food Court.

WELLINGTON

Fidel’s: A Wellington institution and the perfect place to get your coffee fix. Loose change will get you something from the packed cabinet of freshly baked goods. For a bigger meal try their renowned pizzas and salads.

Little Penang: For flavour-filled curries, wok-charred noodles and other authentic Malaysian street food, this is the place to head. Grab a roti and curry for less than $10.

 

 

 

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KAIKOURA

The Original Kaikoura Seafood BBQ: Kaikoura means ‘meal of crayfish’ (New Zealand rock lobster) and this is the ideal stop for seafood lovers on a budget. From crayfish fritters to juicy scallops this beachside hut has no shortage of delicious seafood choices and coastline views.

 

 

 

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QUEENSTOWN

Fergburger: By far the most famous burger joint in the country! Fergburger has become a Queenstown rite of passage. Choose from a traditional (The Fergburger) or more unique (Sweet Bambi) succulent filling inside a massive burger bun. Burgers start from $12 and you won’t be left hungry!

 

 

 

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CHRISTCHURCH

Dimitris Greek Food: Craving a Greek Souvlaki? Hot pita bread packed with juicy NZ lamb and topped with tzatziki is the ideal snack while wandering around this now permanent pop-up mall in the heart of Christchurch’s revived centre.