Long Lunch Ideas in New Zealand

"If you’re looking for an unforgettable lunch experience that you have to ‘put in a little work’ to get to, then The Beach House on Kawau Island is the spot. You will be flabbergasted once you arrive at the location…so secluded..so tranquil…with ocean views from every window making it well worth the boat ride from either Sandspit or Auckland. As for the restaurant, they say their “chefs are enthusiastic about quality free range food, presented in a style which is simple and real”…basically, they’re all about good food and good wine. Note: Definitely book ahead - these guys can get busy with weddings etc over summer (you’ll see why once you get there!)"

"This is simply a stunning location. Not only that, it’s a little ‘off the beaten track’ so it’s generally not over-flowing with patrons, leaving you to soak up the serenity with your buddies. As for the long lunch thing, it’s open ‘til 4pm on the weekends which is plenty enough time for a nice session, but they never make you feel like you should leave because they’re lovely people. The chef is amazing, a lot of the produce is grown on site…and you should order their 2013 Albarino #idyllic. Note: When making a booking, ask if the ‘small deck out the front’ is available…trust me."

"The perfect lunch destination with a boutique, family friendly atmosphere that’s a nice and easy mini road trip (40 minutes) from Auckland Central. A contemporary a la carte menu with something for all (kids platters too) and plenty of wine styles to back up each of the chef’s creations. It feels like you’re a world away from the city amongst their vines, which is exactly what you want with a weekend lunch outing. And if you’re up for a little activity while you’re there, give the claybird shooting, archery or pentanque a go. Note: The vineyard platter with anyone of their wines is highly recommended!"

"I feel like not much more needs to be said, as the photo of Te Whau’s view is doing a whole lot of talking (click to view). I will say though that they have consistently won awards for their food and wine through their years on the island - and that they have OYSTERS FROM WAIHEKE to go with your champagne. Note: The restaurant is open for lunch and wine tastings on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with dinner on Saturday nights also. From November 1st they’ll be open for lunch and wine tasting six days a week (closed Tuesdays) from 11am-5pm. You must book!"

"A comfortable, welcoming place famous for its good vibes, good times and even better beers, Leigh Sawmill is simply awesome, no matter which season you visit. Their wine and food list supports local producers where possible and their signature pizzas have been the talk of the town for an impressive amount of time. Note: If you’ve had one too many of their brewed-on-site beers then there’s accommodation availble too - book ahead!"