Become a Best partner Swap to AU
The Best NZ Restaurants to Celebrate Every Mum
Published 11 April 2025

Mother’s day is around the corner, and as the date creeps closer, the quest to find her the perfect gift becomes more urgent. Choosing the perfect present can be tricky, but sometimes all mum needs is a night out surrounded by whanau with some good kai. 

New Zealand has an array of establishments for all types of diners. After all, no two mums are the same. Whether she’s adventurous with her food or all about the classics, health-focused or a fast-food fan—there’s a perfect spot for her. This guide has some great places from across the country to consider for this special day. 

  • Gaja

    4 Brown Street, Ponsonby
    It's perfect for Korean flavour lovers who want fun vibes and bold twists in equal measure.
    You need to try the dumplings, gochujang ribs or kimchi fried rice then hit a sake cocktail for full effect.
    Look out for the neon tiger mural, chopstick cocktails and staff who’ll pour you soju like it’s a team sport.

    For the trendsetter Mum: The trendsetter mum loves being at the forefront of everything fresh and exciting. Whether it’s discovering new fashion or uncovering the next hot spot, she’s always in the know. If Mum is a trailblazer, Gaja in Ponsonby is the ideal spot. With its unique, modern Korean flavours and sleek atmosphere, it’s a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day in style. Finish with a handcrafted cocktail or house made soju, and you’ve got a Mother’s Day party on the cards.

    Read more
    Buy a gift card for Gaja Buy
  • The Old Vicarage

    335 Halswell Road, Halswell, Christchurch
    It's perfect for brunch dates, catch-ups or pretending you live in a charming heritage villa.
    You need to try the pork belly or Eggs Benny with a mimosa. Big portions and even bigger flavour.
    Look out for the sun-soaked courtyard, crackling fireplace and heritage vibes with zero stuffiness.
    For the homebody Mum: She’s all about warmth and relaxation—whether it’s decorating her space or settling in for a quiet evening, home is where her heart is. If your mum is a homebody, The Old Vicarage is the next best place to take her because this cafe restaurant and bar is located inside an old minister’s house. Dining here will feel like eating in your own living room, except no one needs to cook. The food is impeccable, serving familiar specialties for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With hearty food and high calibre service, this place doesn’t just aim to fill the stomach, they feed the soul.
    Read more
    Buy a gift card for The Old Vicarage Buy
  • Pravda Cafe

    107 Customhouse Quay, Wellington CBD
    For the brunch Mum: From eggs Benedict to freshly brewed coffee, this mum knows how to make brunch an event worth looking forward to every weekend. For the mums who want a little bit of everything, this cafe and grill in Wellington is an underrated hotspot. By day, Pravda serves up classic favourites with a twist. We’re talking eggs benny with Turkish bread, or pancakes topped with dulce de leche. Pravda’s distinct charm truly comes out at night. One of their most unique appetisers is their grilled nectarine, and aside from their mains, they also have a menu dedicated to a variety of steaks.
    Read more
  • Sidart Restaurant

    283 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby
    It's perfect for a spectacular fine dining experience with beautifully curated food and wine menus
    You need to try arriving in time to catch the sunset colours
    Look out for the Fijian style fish curry and Black Angus tartare
    For the wine and dine Mum: From gourmet dishes to a carefully selected wine list, this mum enjoys the finer things in life, making every dining experience unforgettable. She thrives on the atmosphere of a stylish restaurant, enjoying the ambiance as much as the meal itself. This is where Sidart comes in – an award-winning fine dining restaurant overlooking the Auckland city skyline. Showcasing Fijian Indian cuisine made with seasonal New Zealand ingredients, Mum will enjoy discovering a perfect wine pairing to elevate her meal.
    Read more
    Buy a gift card for Sidart Restaurant Buy
  • Gorilla Kitchen

    146B Karangahape Rd, Auckland CBD
    For the vegan Mum: This mum is all about vitality—whether it’s through yoga, wholesome meals, or outdoor activities, she embraces a healthy lifestyle every day. Whether your mum has some dietary restrictions or just likes to keep it green, Gorilla Kitchen in Auckland is the perfect establishment to visit for a casual and nutritious bite to eat. With a 100 percent vegan menu, this place makes sure their dishes cater to everyone regardless of their meat-eating habits. Many diners say they wouldn’t have guessed the dishes were entirely plant-based!
    Read more
  • Gemmayze Street

    183 Karangahape Road, Shop 16, St Kevin's Arcade, Auckland CBD
    For the adventurous Mum: With a fearless spirit and a love for the unknown, she’s the mum who always says “yes” to new adventures. If your mum is the type who always wants to try something new, Gemmayze Street is sure to take her for a spin. Offering up authentic Lebanese cuisine, the menu delivers a flavour punch to the gut (in a good way). Gemmayze Street offers a variety of sharing dishes for those who want to curate their meal, as well as a few set menu options, making it a great place to take Mum.
    Read more