Food Department

Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula


Pizza by the slice and interesting gelato – our favourite is the cinnamon and rice – reinforce the authentic Italian credentials of the Food Department. The scattering of mismatched retro furniture is good for the first coffee of the day, and comfort food like lasagna can be purchased to eat in or take away. Also a great place for a leisurely brunch.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Waikato & the Coromandel Peninsula attractions

1. Old School Arts Centre

0.65 MILES

A community hub, the Old School Arts Centre has changing exhibitions and workshops, including weaving, carving, yoga and storytelling. Movies screen here…

2. Mt Karioi

5.05 MILES

In legend, Mt Karioi (756m), the Sleeping Lady (check out that profile), is the sister to Mt Pirongia. At its base (8km south of Whale Bay), Te Toto Gorge…

3. Waireinga

7.17 MILES

Just past Te Mata (a short drive south of the main Raglan–Hamilton road) is the turn-off to the 55m-high Waireinga, 4km from the main road. From the car…

4. Ruapuke Beach

8.35 MILES

Whale Bay marks the end of the sealed road, but a gravel road continues to the wild spans of Ruapuke Beach, 22km from Raglan. It’s dangerous for swimmers…

5. Post Box Gallery

17.74 MILES

This volunteer-run gallery and shop is worth checking out to purchase interesting works and souvenirs from the increasing number of artists and designers…

6. Kawhia Regional Museum & Gallery

17.81 MILES

Kāwhia's modest waterside museum has local history, nautical and Māori art and artefacts, as well as regular art exhibitions. Don't miss the huge fossil…

7. Mt Pirongia

17.96 MILES

The main attraction of the 170-sq-km Pirongia Forest Park is Mt Pirongia, its 959m summit clearly visible from much of the Waikato. The mountain is…

8. Ocean Beach

18.3 MILES

Four kilometres west of Kāwhia is Ocean Beach and its high, black-sand dunes. Swimming can be dangerous, but one to two hours either side of low tide you…