Local Market Tour and Modern Vegetarian Cooking Experience in Northland
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a private and authentic cooking class, local market tour and home cooked meal with your host Anna. This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone looking to connect with local culture over food. The market tour involves Anna showing you the best vendors and talking to you about the local culture. Anna and her family live in a 140-year old Kauri villa that they are slowly renovating. The kitchen is the hub of their home and they have opened it up to make the most of its beautiful original character. Anna enjoys meeting new people and is looking forward to having fun sharing wholesome delicious food together with travelers to the area. After your cooking class you will join the family at the dining table or vine covered deck in the summer time, to enjoy the very meal you have cooked. You may have cooked a vegetarian or vegan barbecue or a meal influenced by middle-eastern, Italian, Asian or Mexican flavors. Dessert will include pudding, cake, tart or homemade ice cream.
Available options
Market tour + Cooking + Lunch
What's included
Home cooked meal
Gratuities
Private local market tour and cooking class with your host Anna
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Meeting point
Meet Anna at either the Saturday or Sunday market in Kerikeri. Exact address can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation.
Important notes
Meet Anna at either the Saturday or Sunday market in Kerikeri.
Saturday Market address: Old Packhouse Market, 505 Kerikeri Rd, Kerikeri
Sunday Market address: Bay of Islands Farmers Market, 10 Hobson Avenue, Kerikeri
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals, in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.
We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!
About Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a sub-tropical paradise located in the Northland region of New Zealand's North Island. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, it's a haven for water sports, nature lovers, and those seeking a taste of New Zealand's colonial past.
Top Attractions
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
This is the site where the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, was signed. It's a significant cultural and historical site with museums, a marae (meeting ground), and beautiful gardens.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (NZD 45-60 for adults)
Hole in the Rock
A famous sea arch in the Bay of Islands, best viewed by boat. It's a spectacular natural formation and a popular spot for dolphin sightings.
Nature
2-3 hours (including boat tour)
Moderate to Expensive (NZD 50-120 depending on the tour)
Russell
A charming historic town with a rich past as New Zealand's first capital. It's known for its beautiful beaches, waterfront dining, and historic buildings.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Dolphin Coast Track
A scenic walking track offering stunning views of the Bay of Islands. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Adventure
2-4 hours depending on the section
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood
The Bay of Islands is renowned for its fresh seafood, including snapper, mussels, and oysters. Often served grilled, fried, or in chowder.
Main course
May contain allergens like shellfish.
Hangi
A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, resulting in tender, smoky meats and vegetables.
Main course
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally includes meat.
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Contains eggs and dairy.
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Sailing
Hiking
Dolphin watching
Fishing
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Best Time to Visit
December to March (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and the best conditions for water activities. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
20°C to 28°C
68°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST). Daylight saving time (NZDT) is observed from late September to early April (GMT+13).
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The Bay of Islands is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure.
- • Be cautious when swimming in the ocean, as currents can be strong.
- • Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.
Getting there
By air
- Kerikeri Airport • 25 km from Paihia
- Bay of Islands Airport (in the planning stages) • To be determined
By bus
Kerikeri, Paihia
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are available but not extensive. Services are more frequent in the summer season.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None locally, but Uber is available in some areas.
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Paihia
Russell
Kerikeri
Day trips
Cape Reinga
120 km from Paihia • Full day
Cape Reinga is the northernmost point of the North Island, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. It's a significant spiritual site for the Maori and offers stunning views and a unique cultural experience.
Waipoua Forest
100 km from Paihia • Full day
Waipoua Forest is one of the oldest and most ancient forests in New Zealand, home to the famous Tane Mahuta, a giant kauri tree. It's a place of cultural significance and natural beauty.
Mangonui
40 km from Paihia • Half day
Mangonui is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful harbor, historic sites, and fresh seafood. It's a great place to explore the local history and enjoy the scenic views.
Festivals
Waitangi Day • February 6th
Russell Regatta • February
Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival • January
Pro tips
- Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performance.
- Take a boat tour to the Hole in the Rock for the best views and dolphin spotting opportunities.
- Explore the historic town of Russell for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and stunning waterfront views.
- Hike the Dolphin Coast Track for panoramic views of the Bay of Islands and a chance to spot local wildlife.
- Visit the local markets and shops for unique souvenirs and support local artisans.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
