New Zealand cuisine is largely driven by local ingredients and seasonal variations. Occupying an island nation with a primarily agricultural economy, New Zealand yields produce from land and sea. Similar to the cuisine of Australia, the cuisine of New Zealand is a diverse British-based cuisine with Mediterranean and Pacific Riminfluences as the country becomes more cosmopolitan.

Historical influences came from Maori culture. New American cuisine, Southeast Asian, East Asian and Indian traditions have become popular since the 1970s.

In New Zealand households, dinner (also known as “tea”) is the main meal of the day, when families gather and share their evening together. Restaurants and takeaways provide an increasing proportion of the diet.

Cafes In Picton:

Cafe Cortado - 30 London Quay, Picton 7220, New Zealand +64 3-573 5630.

Le Cafe 12/14 London Quay, Marlborough 7220, New Zealand +64 3-573 5588

Dog & Frog Cafe 22 High Street, Picton 7220, New Zealand+64 3-573 5650

Escape To Picton:Escape to Picton has been nominated in The Best Restaurant catagory for the HANZ 2010 Excellence Awards.