The 4 Buffet Experiences in New Zealand That Earn Their Price

1.Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 3,575 reviews · 3 hours · from $101Our pick

Spend three hours at Mitai Maori Village in Rotorua, where a guide introduces Maori customs, warriors paddle a waka along the Wai-o-whiro stream, and performers present songs, dances, and haka. You will also watch a hangi lifted from the earth, eat a generous buffet, and walk through native bush to a sacred spring and, when conditions allow, glow worms.

“Overall experience was fantastic! We were concerned because we had received an email stating that there would be no glowworms and that had been a highlight my friend had been looking forward to! Fortunately, we did get to see them and the rest of the show was fantastic. The food was great as well, especially considering it was a buffet.”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Milford Sound Cruise: Stunning Views & Optional Picnic or Buffet

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 217 reviews · from $102

Board Southern Discoveries at Milford Wharf for an approximately 1 hour 45 minute cruise through Fiordland. You will pass Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls, and Seal Point while watching for dolphins, fur seals, and penguins. Choose the cruise alone, a picnic, or a buffet lunch. Commentary is live, with a multilingual app available.

“Absolutely stunning views and experience. We had fantastic weather and even though it was -2 degrees the sun and the wildlife kept us warm and distracted. Seals, Dolphins, Crested Penguins and we think 2 Albatross made for an awesome trip. Just loved it. Even the trip from Te Anua to the Sound was very scenic and enjoyable.”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Lake Cruise to Walter Peak Farm with BBQ Buffet

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 66 reviews · 3h 30m · from $95Top rated

Cruise Lake Whakatipu aboard the Spirit of Queenstown, then enjoy a wood-fired BBQ buffet at Colonel’s Homestead on Walter Peak. Your visit includes a family-friendly farm demonstration, time for the gardens, and a return lake cruise. Jo’s sheep-shearing presentation and Jacob’s attentive lunch service have added a personal touch for some visitors.

“Very relaxing trip. Great lunch. Friendly staff. Enjoyed it all.”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Lake Rotorua Cruise with Buffet Dining Option

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 4 reviews · 1h 30m · from $29Best value

Cruise Lake Rotorua for 90 minutes aboard the Lakeland Queen paddle steamer. Choose a sightseeing sailing or a buffet meal cruise, with indoor and outdoor seating, lake and geothermal views, and friendly English-speaking service. Afternoon sailings do not include the buffet, but food and drinks can be purchased onboard.

Check availability →Read our full review