The guide’s ranking · Auckland

Best Pāua
in Auckland

Pāua is the New Zealand species of abalone, instantly recognizable by its vibrant, iridescent blue and green shell. Unlike its Asian or Californian counterparts, Pāua has a distinct black foot and a rich, earthy, almost nutty flavor. In Māori culture, it is a treasure and a highly prized food source that must be harvested sustainably. It is most commonly served as creamed Pāua or in the form of pan-fried fritters. The trap is rubbery, overcooked Pāua, which loses the delicate texture that makes it a world-class luxury ingredient.

Pāua (Abalone) · say “Pāua” ·

How this ranking works

Guide score ✕ verified reader stamps ✕ critic notes ✕ Google Maps signal. External reviews are linked, never copied.

What to order

Why locals care

Duo

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Queue: North Shore suburb; Birkenhead ferry from Downtown then 5-min walk.

Go: 10:00; they sell out of their signature item quickly.

Price: $$

Dietary:

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Ahi

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Queue: Commercial Bay precinct, 5-min walk from Britomart.

Go: 19:30; a high-end experience in the heart of the city.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Depot

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Queue: Federal St, 5-min walk from Sky Tower.

Go: 12:30; no bookings, so expect a lively wait.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Homeland

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Queue: Wynyard Quarter, 12-min walk from Britomart or Sky Tower.

Go: 13:00; a great spot for a long, productive lunch.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Auckland Fish Market

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Queue: 10-min walk from Britomart.

Go: 11:00; explore the stalls before the lunch crowd arrives.

Price: $$

Dietary:

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Soul Bar & Bistro

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Queue: Viaduct Harbour, 10-min walk from Sky Tower or Britomart.

Go: 13:30; perfect for people-watching on the terrace.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Captain Kai Moana

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Queue: mobile, check social media for current location before visiting.

Go: Weekend mornings at local markets.

Price: $

Dietary:

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Baduzzi

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Queue: North Wharf, Wynyard Quarter; 12-min walk from Britomart.

Go: 19:00; a great spot for a sophisticated Italian meal.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Kingi

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Queue: Britomart precinct, 3-min walk from Britomart station.

Go: 18:00; a stylish spot for an evening drink and meal.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Gilt Brasserie

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Queue: Chancery Lane, 5-min walk from Britomart.

Go: 20:00; a sophisticated city spot for late dining.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Onslow

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Queue: Princes St, CBD; 8-min walk from Britomart.

Go: 19:30; perfect for a special occasion.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Tantalus Estate

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Queue: 40-min ferry then island bus or rental bike from Matiatia Wharf.

Go: 13:00; book well in advance for a weekend lunch.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Mudbrick Vineyard

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Queue: 40-min ferry then short taxi or island bus from Matiatia Wharf.

Go: 18:00; watch the sunset over the city from the island.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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The Lodge Bar & Dining

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Queue: Commercial Bay, 5-min walk from Britomart.

Go: 15:00; a great spot for a late afternoon snack.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Oyster & Chop

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Queue: Viaduct Harbour, 10-min walk from Sky Tower.

Go: 17:00; perfect for an early evening meal by the water.

Price: $$$

Dietary:

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Decide at a glance

Worth a meal slot?

Top score

0.0 / 10

Verified venues

15 stops

Per meal

Heads up

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