You’ve checked out the toasties, and you’ve conquered the burgers. Now, one of the world’s most universally beloved comfort foods is finally getting its well-deserved time in the spotlight.
Saturday, September 26 marked International Dumpling Day. With it came the launch of an exciting new culinary adventure: The Great New Zealand Dumpling Trail. Running for three delicious weeks until October 17, 2026, the nationwide trail highlights incredible restaurants offering standout dumpling dishes, giving food lovers the chance to rate their favourites and win prizes along the way.
Powered by New Zealand Chinese Language Week, the trail is designed to be a nationwide celebration of dumplings, culture, and community.
Where to Find the Best Dumplings on the Trail
Stretching from No. 8 in Whangārei all the way down to Rising Sun Dumplings and Chopsticks101 in Dunedin, the trail is a true cross-country affair. Whether you prefer a classic pork and chive parcel, a crispy fried sensation, or an inventive fusion twist, there is something for every palate.
Here is a taste of just a few mouth-watering stops you won’t want to miss on your dumpling journey:
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Ghost Street (Auckland): Head down into this subterranean Britomart sensation for an earthy, umami-packed delight. They are serving up incredible Shiitake, Wakame, and vegetable dumplings elevated with shallot caramel, soy, and a punchy chilli oil.
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Mr Lobster Private Kitchen (Henderson, Auckland): Looking for a crunch with a kick? Don’t miss their Deep Fried Prawn & Wasabi Dumplings, tossed with chilli and garlic for the ultimate flavor bomb.
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Johney’s Dumpling House (Mount Maunganui): Bringing a Southeast Asian flair to the trail, Johney’s is serving aromatic Lamb and Lemongrass dumplings. These morsels are bathed in a rich, comforting Penang Curry.
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Madame Social Eatery & Bar (Ahuriri, Napier): For a true taste of Aotearoa, Madame Social is celebrating local kaimoana with a spectacular Pork and Pāua Dumpling.
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Pomelo Kitchen & Bar (Wellington): Decadence is on the menu in the capital. Pomelo is offering Prawn Dumplings drenched in a salted egg yolk creamy butter sauce, balanced with fragrant lemongrass and curry leaves.
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The Kawakawa Cafe (Opawa, Christchurch): Who says dumplings have to be savory? Leave room for dessert and try the Hangi Steam Pudding Dumpling. This sweet creation features kawakawa and ginger, served on vanilla custard. And topped with kiwifruit, freeze-dried raspberry, passionfruit cream, and a golden syrup drizzle.
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Ditto (Te Anau): Down south, Ditto is bringing land and sea together with their aptly named “Tide & Tusk” dumplings.
Taste. Explore. Review. Win.
Getting involved is as easy as sitting down for a good meal. Between September 26 and October 17, 2026, simply visit a participating restaurant, order their signature trail dumpling, scan the official campaign QR code on your table, and complete the review form.
Each valid review counts as one entry (one review per meal purchase), and the four participants with the highest number of valid reviews at the end of the campaign will each win a $100 food voucher.
“We’ll be giving away four $100 food vouchers, so start exploring, support local hospitality, and discover some of New Zealand’s best dumplings along the way,” says English.
Ready to start eating? Details of all participating restaurants and their locations are available at: www.greatnzdumplingtrail.com
