Local Food & Drink

From character-rich cafes serving up classic Kiwi fare to beautifully restored taverns oozing with historic charm and hearty pub grub, right through to uber-modern eateries with more cosmopolitan menus, dining on the West Coast is an exploration of sensational flavours, textures and aromas.

Discover the local gold mining heritage and unique taste of artisan gin, fruit liqueur and whiskey at the Reefton Distilling Company, soak up the beautiful scenery with a lakefront picnic or relaxed lunch at the Kingfisher Restaurant and Bar at Lake Brunner.

After an epic day hiking or biking the trails, enjoy a hearty meal at a local pub, wrap your laughing gear around a West Coast white bait sandwich or hunt out the region’s unique food and brews at the legendary Wildfoods Festival.

Thatcher & Small

Thatcher & Small is an enticing all day dining destination. Visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or stop in for a barista made coffee and a sweet treat. Freshly baked scones and muffins are available every morning alongside an array of cabinet food. Offering dedicated breakfast, lunch and dinner menus catering to a range of tastes as well craft beer, local and international wines and some of the best cocktails the West Coast has to offer.

Thatcher & Small

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Reefton Distilling Co

For a genuine taste of the intrepid spirit of the West Coast and its people, a trip to the Reefton Distilling Co is a great place to start. Housed in one of Reefton’s beautiful heritage buildings, the distillery produces premium handcrafted spirits distilled from the West Coast’s lush rainforest.

Reefton Distilling Co

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Bassano Pizza Parlour

Nestled on Broadway Street in Reefton, Bassano Pizza Parlour combines historical charm with culinary excellence. Named after Frank Bassano, who arrived on the West Coast in 1908, the restaurant honours the Bassano family's Italian heritage with authentic wood-fired pizzas crafted using top-of-the-line equipment imported from Italy

Bassano Pizza Parlour

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Shortjaw Brewery

Shortjaw Brewing, located in Westport, is a vibrant microbrewery known for its innovative craft beers and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the coastal town, Shortjaw Brewing offers a diverse selection of brews, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all crafted with a focus on quality and local ingredients. The brewery’s cozy taproom provides a relaxed space for visitors to enjoy their beers, and is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts and locals alike.

Shortjaw Brewery

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Monteith’s Brewery

Located in Greymouth, the iconic Monteith’s Brewery is the original home of craft brewing in New Zealand. Take the guided 45-minute brewery experience tour to learn about craft beer and the brewing process. Pour your own beer from the tap and relax in their lively restaurant and enjoy something from their locally inspired menu.

Monteith’s Brewery

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Hokitika Sandwich Company

The Hokitika Sandwich Company, located in the heart of Hokitika, offers a delightful array of gourmet sandwiches made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Known for their creative combinations and generous portions, the company serves up everything from classic favourites to inventive new flavours.

Hokitika Sandwich Company

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The Cray Pot

The Craypot is an epic little seaside destination eatery serving up delicious fresh seafood dishes, sourced locally wherever possible. The Craypot has an expansive alfresco dining space perched on a seaside terrace where you can watch the dolphins play and the fishing boats come in. In bad weather, retreat to the warmth of the indoor dining area with views across the bay.

The Cray Pot

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Learn more about West Coast

at the official tourism website

Visit West Coast

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Explore more of the Top of the South

Hurunui

From the rolling hills and wineries of Waiparato the rugged limestone cliffs along the east coast, the incredible vistas, relaxed vibe and warm Kiwi hospitality in Hurunui offers an opportunity to slowdown and make the most of your visit.

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Kaikoura

From the thrill of whale spotting by plane, trekking with llamas and visiting with seals, there are so many exciting opportunities to explore this unique area by land, sea or air. The waters in this part of the world are home to a vast array of marine mammals and birdlife which can be viewed from above and below the waves.

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Marlborough

Dreamy sunsets, calm reflections and star-filled nights - you couldn’t ask for a more inspiring backdrop to create un-filled holiday memories with your loved ones. Explore the four valleys that create Marlborough, meet the passionate people who live, work and play there and learn about their connection with the land.

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Nelson Tasman

Nelson Tasman has an incredible arts and events scene, an exciting and diverse range of food and beverage producers and an indelible connection with the outdoors. Along with a vibrant array of fresh produce and artisan products, boutique wineries, craft breweries and award winning cider makers can all be found in this part of the world.

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