Labour Day Eats: Where to Dine for New Zealand’s Public Holiday

Open on Labour Day to deliver bold Korean flavours, Gaja will not disappoint! This lovely and authentic Korean restaurant in Ponsonby is famous for its fun vibes and bold flavours. Be sure to try their dumplings, gochujang ribs, or kimchi fried rice. The rustic and modern blend crafts a unique and lively atmosphere, with the neon tiger mural and globular paper lantern decor. Don’t forget to wash everything down with a sake, chopstick cocktail, or soju!

Packed with flavour, Viet Flames is open on Labour Day for an evening of delicious Vietnamese food. Blending Vietnamese flavour and tradition with fresh local New Zealand ingredients, this restaurant in Mount Wellington, Auckland, creates a soul-happy dining experience. The diverse menu changes with the season, and each dish pays homage to its ancient roots. Try the pho and lemongrass beef. Their fast service, neon lights, and loyal crowd make for a wholesome atmosphere. 

Known for its lively nights and sizzling tacos, Mexico Wellington is a great dining choice this Labour Day. Whisking guests away to the bustling streets of Mexico, this hub delivers authentic, flavourful dishes, complemented by a vibrant atmosphere. Great for friends and family, you can tuck into their sharing plates, quesadillas, tacos, and wash it down with their wide selection of tequila, Mexican beers, and sangria.  

With its warm and moody lighting, extensive wine bar, and delicious Italian cuisine, Astoria in Wellington Central is a great choice for Labour Day dining. Whether you are interested in breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Astoria has crafted a menu with the flavours and dishes of Italy, such as pizzas, pasta, mains, and shared starters. Their pasta is mixed, rolled, and extruded in-house, and they are focused on seasonal flavours and working with independent farms and producers. Check them out! 

The Dish is perfect for a night of bold flavours, cosy vibes, and a gentle buzz. This Asian fusion in the heart of Christchurch is a great choice for a Labour Day meal out. Decked out with low-hanging glowing lanterns, peculiar reddish and green foliage, and dark accent decor, the dining suite is intimate, warm, and tinted with spice in the air. Be sure to try their sticky pork ribs, slow-cooked beef cheeks, and a fluffy roti. 

For an evening of cocktails, live music, and Southern-USA style dishes, be sure to check out Boo’s Bar. Tucked into central Christchurch, this dark and moody restaurant has New Zealand’s largest selection of bourbon whisky, waiting for you to sample, along with plenty of craft beer. Their menu doesn’t disappoint, either, and you must try the bourbon-glazed pork ribs, chicken and waffles and their tasty tuna sliders.

Imagine authentic and flavour-packed Japanese cuisine with the backdrop of Queenstown’s stunning lake and soaring mountains. Tucked into a laneway reminiscent of Osaka’s back streets, Tanoshi captures an immersive atmosphere and a delightful menu. Perfect for friends and family, Tanoshi serves tapas-style dishes such as pork dumplings and scallops with wasabi mayo. Yum!