Waipiata, located in Central Otago on New Zealand's South Island, offers a charming food and drink scene that reflects its rustic charm and natural beauty. Known for its classic kiwi pubs like the Waipiata Pub, built in 1898, these establishments offer cold beer and a relaxed atmosphere after a day of exploring the area. Central Otago is renowned for its wineries, particularly those producing Pinot Noir, and the region is home to many mum and pop vineyards and exceptional wineries. Alongside these, there are fabulous eateries that showcase the area's impressive produce, from seasonal fruits like cherries to honey and high-quality meats such as lamb and venison.
The region hosts an annual food festival every spring (September - October) called Eat.Taste.Central, where restaurants, pubs, wineries, and venues create festival dishes that highlight the flavors of Central Otago. This is the perfect time to visit and explore the local food scene, but remember to come hungry! The Waipiata Country Hotel is also known for its pie and a pint for lunch, which is a popular choice among visitors.