Eat, Drink, Explore: Auckland

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN AUCKLAND

Hāngī is a traditional New Zealand Māori method of cooking where food, such as fish or sweet potato, is cooked in a pit oven dug underground, called an umu. Today, hāngī is still practiced for large groups on special occasions, where pork, lamb, potato, pumpkin, and cabbage are wrapped in mutton cloth, aluminum foil, or wire baskets before being placed in the umu. The food is left underground for three to four hours until the meat is tender and the vegetables are infused with smoky, earthy flavors. Good food is central to the spirit of manaakitanga (hospitality) in traditional Māori culture, so sharing a feast from the centuries-old hāngī process should be experienced at least once during your time in New Zealand.

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Auckland

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Auckland:

• Hāngī: To get a taste of traditional Māori cuisine, you have to try a Hāngī. This is a traditional feast where food like chicken, pork, and vegetables are cooked in an underground pit with hot rocks. It's a unique way of cooking that gives students a glimpse into the country’s indigenous culture.
• Kaimoana (Seafood): Auckland is the "City of Sails," so it makes sense that seafood, or Kaimoana in Māori, is a big part of the local food scene! From fresh oysters and green-lipped mussels to classic fish and chips, the local seafood is absolutely a must try.
• Kumara: This is the Māori word for sweet potato, and you'll find Kumara served everywhere from classic roasted veggies to Kumara fries. It plays a central role in both Māori and modern Kiwi cooking, so we recommend trying it! 

BEST DRINK IN AUCKLAND

An iconic soft drink from New Zealand, Lemon & Paeroa (L&P) is a delicious lemony fizz made in Paeroa, New Zealand. Concocted from lemon and carbonated mineral water, this refreshing beverage boasts a distinct taste, which is both tangy and sweet, with a hint of natural lemon flavor and a fizzy effervescence. Since it was first created in 1907, New Zealanders have enjoyed L&P for generations, to the point that locals have a nostalgic appeal for the drink. L&P can be found in supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants across the country and is most popularly enjoyed on hot summer days due to its thirst-quenching effect. While in New Zealand, sample an L&P to discover firsthand why this beloved beverage is a culturally significant staple.

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Auckland

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Auckland:

• L&P (Lemon & Paeroa): L&P is a classic soft drink that is "World Famous in New Zealand." It's made with a tasty blend of lemon juice and fizzy mineral water, and you can find it in most stores and cafes for a quick pick-me-up!
• Kawakawa Tea: For a taste of traditional Māori culture, try Kawakawa tea! This herbal tea is made from the leaves of the native Kawakawa plant. It has a slightly peppery flavor and is known for its traditional medicinal properties, it’s definitely worth a try!
• Flat White: You can’t leave Auckland without trying a Flat White. This coffee plays a big role in the local cafe scene, plus New Zealand claims to have invented it! It's made with a shot of espresso, steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam on top. 

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN AUCKLAND

Are you a fan of the Lord of the Rings franchise? Less than two hours from Auckland, Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours is a must-visit destination. This significant location was used for the Lord of the Rings film trilogy and The Hobbit film trilogy, giving you the special opportunity to experience the real Middle-earth™ movie set for yourself. In the heart of New Zealand's Waikato region, you'll step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, journey past the colorful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, and arrive at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit's home. A fully guided tour takes around three hours from start to finish, so budget your free time accordingly to enjoy this incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Auckland

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Auckland:

• Sky Tower: This iconic tower is the most recognizable landmark in Auckland! It's also the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand and offers incredible 360-degree views of the city. If you're a thrill seeker, you can even do the SkyWalk or the SkyJump (a bungy jump) from the top!
• Rangitoto Island: Rangitoto is a volcanic island in the Waitematā Harbour, and for locals, it’s a popular day trip from Auckland. Hiking to the top of the volcano gives you an amazing view of the city and it's the perfect way to explore the area’s unique geology.
• Auckland War Memorial Museum: This museum is a must-visit for anyone who wants to understand more about New Zealand’s history. It has a huge collection of Māori artifacts and art, as well as exhibits on the country’s military history. 

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