Hangi

Connect with Aotearoa’s flora and fauna at the zoo – and sample traditional Maori kai!

We’re celebrating Waitangi Weekend with a special hāngī evening event on Friday 7 February. A perfect way to celebrate all things Aotearoa, a traditional hāngī is where food is steamed inside an earth oven called an umu over heated stones. Today, modern technology is used to create the same traditional Māori flavours and give an authentic experience.

You’ll get to sit at our iconic Old Elephant House restaurant that looks out across to our spider monkey habitat whilst enjoying delicious dishes made with aroha (love).

This buffet haukai (feast) includes:
- Three different meats cooked in a modern Maori hangi, served with seasonal vegetables. This unique way of cooking produces tender, succulent meat and provides an authentic experience and taste of Maori culture.
- Locally-sourced fish cooked over hot stones to create a subtle char that enhances the fish’ natural flavor.
- Traditional, homemade paraoa paria (Maori fried bread).
- Creamed paua (New Zealand shellfish) – the perfect accompaniment to paraoa paria.
- Maori raw fish salad, marinated in a flavorful and fragrant blend of coconut cream and citrus juice.

Dessert:
- Gooey golden syrup pudding served with vanilla bean custard.
- Classic New Zealand pavlova served with cream and fresh fruit.

Limited tickets available, and tickets include Zoo lates entry.