It wouldn’t be a classic Kiwi summer without tucking into that old favourite – fish and chips. Keren Sim finds some tasty takeaways that are well worth a visit.
FishSmith
200 Jervois Road, Herne Bay, Auckland
FishSmith is an Auckland institution known for serving up a modernised take on the classics. Expect everything from fish tacos to mussel fritter burgers at this much-loved seafood joint – but make no mistake, the good old-fashioned fish and chips are also stellar. Choose from snapper, tarakihi, gurnard or the fish of the day; and enjoy with one of their house-made sauces or salads for a truly delicious meal.
Opononi Beach Takeaways
23 State Highway 12, Opononi
Tucked away on the southern shores of the beautiful Hokianga Harbour, Opononi offers plenty of great reasons for a visit – not the least being the charming Opononi Beach Takeaways. This local gem is placed in prime position for some stunning sea views (and people-watching), and it serves up all the standard fish and chip favourites with no-fuss flair. Cheap, cheerful and exactly what you want on a summer’s day, this is fish and chips done right.
The Fishwife
145 Haven Street, Moeraki
It doesn’t get much fresher than the seafood at The Fishwife, which is run by fourth-generation fisherman John Pile and partner Nicky. The blue cod here gets rave reviews, but the crayfish is also worth checking out (in the busy summer months, it pays to call ahead to avoid missing out). The stunning views over the bay at Moeraki are the cherry on top – so settle in and enjoy.
https://www.facebook.com/MoerakiFishWife/
Mangonui Fish Shop
137 Waterfront Road, Mangonui
Mangonui Fish Shop is beloved by locals and visitors alike, and it’s not hard to see why. Locally caught fish, a location right on the water and a proud history dating back to the 1950s means this seafood spot has more than earned its cheeky ‘World Famous’ tagline. And if that wasn’t enough, it’s also fully licensed so you can enjoy ice-cold beers on tap with your fish and chips.
The Chippery
5 Majoribanks Street, Mount Victoria, Wellington
Wellington’s The Chippery offers a range of choices so you can have your fish exactly as you like it – whether that’s beer battered, panko-crumbed, grilled or even gluten-free. That extends to the chips as well, with kumara chips and curly fries making welcome additions to the menu alongside the classic hand-cut agria. Our top tip? Stroll down to nearby Oriental Bay (a short walk away) to enjoy your takeaway with a side of sea views.
Te Aro Fish Supplies Ltd
85 Aro Street, Aro Valley, Wellington
A local gem that offers up generous portions at an equally palatable price. This unassuming Aro Valley spot ticks all the right boxes – think hand-cut chips, crispy battered or crumbed fish and classic seafood sides like oysters, mussels and scallops. The burgers are also a crowd-pleaser, but you really can’t go wrong no matter what you decide.
Search ‘Aro Fish & Chip Shop’ on Facebook.
Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market
1 Dive Crescent, Tauranga
Fresh is best at this Tauranga hot spot, which has the great advantage of being located right on the wharf, with views across the water. Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market serves up all the tasty Kiwi fish and chip classics and has earned plenty of long-time fans over the years. If you find yourself here in the height of summer, expect a bit of a queue, but the food is worth the wait.
Search ‘Bobbys Fresh Fish Market’ on Facebook.
Erik’s Fish and Chips
13 Earl Street, Queenstown
With both Queenstown and Wanaka locations, Erik’s Fish and Chips is a no-brainer if you happen to be heading down to this part of the country this summer. Ingredients are sourced locally, and happily, everything on the menu can also be made gluten-free should you require it. They serve all the classic hits you’d expect along with some curveballs such as deep fried kiwifruit, if you’re in the mood to try something a bit different!
