Eating Your Way Through Ohakune Food Stops

After canoeing on New Zealand's Whanganui River or hitting the slopes of Ruapehu, there's nothing better, or more well deserved, than tucking into a delicious meal. Luckily for you adventure seekers, Ohakune boasts an impressive range of eateries. Beyond its reputation as the carrot capital of the country, local restaurants are going above and beyond to create amazing dishes. 

We have rustled up a few of the best places to get great food in Ohakune, whether it's a hearty brunch, a budget-friendly takeout, or something a little fancier.

Mountain Rocks Café

For the best coffee in Ohakune, pay a visit to Mountain Rocks Café. Situated on the corner of Clyde and Goldfinch Street, this popular café boasts a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, catering to locals and visitors. It also offers a delicious breakfast and lunch menu. Whether you’re craving a classic egg Benedict, a tasty seafood chowder, or a hearty beef burger, Mountain Rocks Café has something for everyone. And if you’re craving something sweet, don’t miss their cabinet of desserts!

(A locals Tip! - See if they have live music on a Friday Night!  Not to be missed)

Johnny Nation's Chocolate Eclair Shop

If you're in the mood for a snack or want to indulge yourself, you can't go wrong with trying a chocolate éclair, world-famous in New Zealand. Before the birds start chirping and the sun has woken up, Johnny Nation's Chocolate Eclair Shop is the busiest place in town. Here, you'll find bakers hard at work preparing hundreds of eclairs to satisfy cravings for this crisp delicacy, oozing with fresh cream and drizzled with chocolate icing.

Ohakune food isn't all fresh and healthy produce; some of it is a little naughty, the type of treat you know isn't good for you, but it doesn't matter when the taste is so delicious. For over 75 years, this bakery has been pumping out puff pastry perfection and a tasty array of baked goods, making this one of the greatest food attractions in Ohakune.

Cyprus Tree

Cyprus Tree is another personal Favourite of the Canoe Safaris Team - Serving mouth-watering dishes sourced from local produce with a healthy side of Kiwi hospitality. Its small plates are great for a nibble, like the Ohakune carrots marinated in orange juice. Its venison medallions and smoked brisket have become destination dishes, drawing in foodies from all over the country. There's also a full kids' menu to please even the fussiest eaters in the family. And for the big kids, there's a great selection of craft beers, and local wines.

(Locals Tip! - Ask Aaron to make you a SUPERB Martini)

In winter, the Cyprus Tree offers roaring open fires and comfy couches to sink into and enjoy a hearty meal. In summer, you can enjoy a beer on the deck and bask in the sun while taking in the stunning views of Ruapehu.  They are busier and busier with each passing year and even open for Brunch during busy months - Mimosa and Cinnamon Rolls anyone?

Captain Kune’s

It doesn't get more Kiwi than freshly prepared fish and chips served right out of the paper, grease and all! While it may be a fair hike to the beach from Ohakune, Captain Kune's is still slinging fresh fish and other deep-fried delights daily. When you've got a tribe to feed and a desire for something greasy, Captain Kune's is the place to be. Loyal customers and passers-through rave about their perfect hot chips (crunchy yet fluffy in the middle), a batter recipe worth keeping secret, and kid-approved hotdogs.

Osteria

This is Canoe Safaris Personal Favourite restaurant! - Discover little Italy in the heart of Ohakune at Osteria. Here you'll find authentic pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and traditional Italian flavours, the perfect soul foods after a hard day paddling. This charming little restaurant is filled with rustic furnishings and roaring open fireplaces, making you second guess whether you're skiing on Ruapehu or the Alps.

While here, treat yourself to the prawn spaghetti or crowd-favourite beef brisket. And be sure to wear your stretchy pants, so you still have room to tuck into the classic creamy Tiramisu for dessert. To go along with the best Italian food in Ohakune, Osteria offers a wide selection of award-winning New Zealand and Australian wines.
(Locals Tip!  Ask the super friendly staff at Osteria about the wine that isn't necessarily on the menu)

Powderkeg Bar

The Powderkeg Restaurant and Bar is an institution in Ohakune, established in 1989; it is the place to experience après ski in New Zealand. The Keg, as it is fondly known, serves up belly-warming seasonal cuisine in famously generous portions.

But it's not until after dark that the Powderkeg explodes into activity. The tables and chairs are swapped out with benches and stools, and Ohakune's nightlife comes alive. Enjoy good drinks, better music, and dance the night away at Ohakune's best bar.

Serving Up Ohakune’s Best Food

Has a full day of paddling got your gas tank running on empty? Each of the above eateries serves up some of the best food Ohakune has to offer and is sure to hit the spot. After your next Whanganui River trip, be sure to refuel at any one of these amazing establishments. For Large groups we recommend making a booking in advance and help with any restaurant reservations.

If by chance you prefer embracing the outdoor experience and dining outdoors, remember that you can always enjoy camping meals for your next canoe trip. Nothing beats the feeling of enjoying a riverside breakfast!

If this food talk has you hungry for adventure, contact Canoe Safaris today and book your next canoe trip with us.

Posted by Canoe Safaris on December 09, 2023