Food has a remarkable way of connecting travellers to a destination. Across Australia and New Zealand, every region offers its own flavours, traditions and local stories — best discovered around a shared table, bustling market stall or unforgettable outdoor setting. From sunset dinners beneath the stars at Uluru to vibrant waterfront markets in Darwin and hands-on cultural feasts in Rotorua, these experiences go beyond the plate. They offer a deeper connection to place, people and tradition. Whether you’re sampling regional produce in South Australia or indulging in sweet treats beside Lake Tekapo, these culinary moments create memories that linger long after the journey ends.
Uluru Barbeque Experience, Red Centre
As the sun dips behind Uluru and the desert sky transforms into a blanket of stars, dinner becomes an experience unlike any other. The Uluru BBQ Dinner combines the beauty of the outback with relaxed hospitality, offering travellers the chance to unwind with sparkling wine, hearty local fare and unforgettable views. With Uluru glowing at sunset and the sounds of the desert all around, guests gather beneath an endless night sky to enjoy fresh salads, grilled meats and dessert while learning to appreciate the stillness and beauty of Australia’s most iconic landscape. As darkness settles across the Red Centre, the silhouettes of Uluru and the Milky Way create a spectacular backdrop for an evening of connection and conversation.
Experience this on: Australian Highlights
Mindl Beach Sunset Markets, Darwin
As the tropical sun sinks into the Timor Sea, Darwin’s Mindil Beach Sunset Markets come alive with colour, music and the aromas of global cuisine. Set against one of Australia’s most spectacular sunsets, the markets blend local creativity with an incredible variety of food and entertainment. With more than 150 stalls lining the foreshore, travellers can wander between local artisans, street performers and food vendors serving flavours from around the world. From handcrafted souvenirs to sizzling street food and live music performances, every corner offers something new to discover, creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly Top End.
Experience this on: Outback Adventure
Adelaide Hills and the Barossa
Rolling vineyards, country hospitality and exceptional local produce define the flavours of South Australia’s famed wine regions. The Adelaide Hills and Barossa are made for slow afternoons and shared meals, where travellers can savour seasonal dishes, discover boutique wines and sample artisan spirits surrounded by vine-covered hills and cellar doors. Long lunches become a leisurely celebration of regional ingredients, while tastings at local estates offer insight into the craftsmanship behind some of the region’s best-loved wines and gins. Every stop highlights the passion of local producers and the region’s deep connection to food and wine culture.
Experience this on: Tastes of Southern Australia, Great Ocean Road & Kangaroo Island
Adelaide Central Market
For food lovers, few places are as exciting as Adelaide Central Market. Bustling with traders, fresh produce and the sounds of daily life, this iconic market has been at the centre of Adelaide’s food scene for generations. Stepping inside is a feast for the senses, with the aromas of freshly baked bread, colourful produce displays and lively conversations creating an atmosphere that reflects the city’s rich culinary culture. Home to dozens of specialty traders, artisan producers and popular eateries, the market invites travellers to sample, explore and experience the flavours that define South Australia.
Experience this on: Tastes of Southern Australia, Great Ocean Road & Kangaroo Island, Outback Adventure
Mount Gnomon Farm, Tasmania
In Tasmania’s rich agricultural heartland, Mount Gnomon Farm offers an authentic paddock-to-plate experience shaped by generations of farming knowledge. Hosted by fifth-generation farmer Guy Robertson and his family, guests are welcomed to explore orchards and gardens before settling in to enjoy a lunch celebrating the region’s freshest seasonal produce. This immersive experience showcases local ingredients, sustainable farming traditions and warm country hospitality, with every dish reflecting the flavours and stories of Tasmania’s fertile landscapes and strong connection to community.
Experience this on: Perfect Tasmania, Tassie’s Parks & Nature
Salamanca Markets, Hobart
Every Saturday, Hobart’s historic waterfront transforms into a lively hub of creativity and flavour at Salamanca Markets. Nestled among sandstone buildings and bustling laneways, the market showcases Tasmania’s thriving community of makers, growers and artists. With hundreds of stalls lining Salamanca Place, visitors can browse handcrafted goods, fresh produce, artisan products and delicious local treats while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere that has made the market a Tasmanian icon. From handcrafted jewellery to gourmet produce and freshly baked pastries, there’s something to discover around every corner.
Experience this on: Perfect Tasmania, Tassie’s Parks & Nature
Te Pō Māori Experience, Rotorua
Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes set the scene for an evening immersed in Māori culture and cuisine. Guided through Te Puia’s geothermal valley, travellers discover the significance of Māori traditions before gathering in a beautifully carved meeting house for storytelling and cultural performance. The experience continues beneath the night sky with views of the dramatic Pohutu Geyser before concluding with a buffet dinner inspired by traditional hāngi cooking methods. Combining cultural connection, powerful performances and the natural wonder of Rotorua, the evening leaves a lasting impression.
Experience this on: Contrasts of New Zealand, Highlights of Australia and New Zealand, Iconic North, New Zealand Panorama, Contrasts of Australia and New Zealand, Australia and New Zealand Panorama
Pavlova Making, Lake Tekapo
Light, crisp and topped with cream and fresh fruit, pavlova is one of New Zealand’s most beloved desserts. Beside the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, travellers can enjoy a delightful afternoon tea experience hosted by the “Pavlova Queen,” discovering the story behind this iconic sweet treat while sharing homemade hospitality and stunning alpine scenery. Closely tied to celebrations and family gatherings across New Zealand, pavlova remains a cherished part of Kiwi culture, making this experience a warm and memorable slice of local life.
