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Road Trips from Queenstown: 5 Restaurants to Visit

Emma Jackson

Published 11/02/2026

Queenstown is Aotearoa’s tourist hotspot — a place where snowy mountains soar into the sky over peaceful lakes, and where alpine hospitality shines. However, the town is also within easy reach of several other cities that are true gems for food lovers. If you’re a local seeking a little weekend getaway, or a visitor seeking to add another Kiwi town with incredible culinary options to your itinerary, we have gathered our top 5 restaurants to visit that are just a road trip away from Queenstown.

Gin Gin
4 New Regent Street, Central City, Christchurch

It's perfect for a casual group booking without the fuss

You need to try the NZ lamb rump skewers with black garlic sauce

Look out for the hand stretched pizzettas, made from two day fermented dough

Gin Gin is for lovers of colourful and refreshing cocktails, cosy ambience, and unique flavours. Perfect for your evening after driving from Queenstown to Christchurch, Gin Gin feels like a warm hug. Tucked into the city’s vibrant New Regent Street, warm lighting, lush decor, and a mouthwatering menu welcome you. Perch outside to people-watch or cosy up inside while you enjoy their creative cocktails. Their sophisticated menu offers something for everyone, including pizzas, barbequed venison, their signature goji-brined fried chicken, and even vegan and vegetarian options.

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Looking to explore more of Aotearoa’s culinary landscape on your travels?

We know all the very best places to eat across New Zealand — including the best restaurants in Christchurch.
Hapuku Kitchen
17 Parsons Road, Hapuku, Kaikōura

It's perfect for food lovers who want to get their hands dirty before sitting down to something unforgettable.

You need to try the seasonal cooking class or Supper Club and prepare to forage, fillet and feast.

Look out for garden-grown herbs, open-fire cooking and coastline views that make you want to move in.

With a focus on reconnecting the kitchen to the land and the sea, Hapuku Kitchen celebrates the abundance that nature has to offer, right in the heart of Kaikoura, a perfect stop on your Queenstown to Christchurch road trip. Nestled between the mountains of Kaikoura, you can choose to experience a hands-in farm-to-table cooking class or tuck into a seasonal evening feast at the Supper Club, where ingredients have been caught, picked, and gathered from the local land. With a delightful garden, indoor seating, and delicious food, you truly cannot go wrong with the Hapuku Kitchen.

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The Shed at Cloudy Bay Vineyard Central Otago
45 Northburn Station Road, RD3, Cromwell

If you are driving from Queenstown to Dunedin, a stop at The Shed will elevate your adventure. Near Cromwell in the South Island, Cloudy Bay Otago is famed for its rich and velvety Pinot Noir. It is a great place to relax and enjoy a wine tasting paired with a light lunch. With breathtaking views over Lake Dunstan and the Pisa mountain range, tuck into the very best of New Zealand cuisine. Try their Canterbury Duck with miso, or their Lamb Takaki with watercress and pine nuts, or their signature and freshly baked focaccia bread. You will not be disappointed.
Formaggio’s
150 Colombo Street, Christchurch

For a delicious blend of Italian-style dishes and traditional New Zealand mains, try Formaggio’s in Christchurch. With its simple and charming ambience, this local favourite is a laidback and casual stop for your Queenstown to Christchurch road trip. The restaurant welcomes everyone with its kid-friendly menu, plant-based options, and a diverse range of pizzas and pastas. The warm atmosphere, friendly service, and moody lighting craft a delightful dining experience perfect for hungry road trippers and explorers of the Garden City.