Spend a day at Hapuku Kitchen in Canterbury, New Zealand, foraging fresh ingredients and cooking a seasonal feast with chef Fiona. This private full-day class offers a hands-on farm-to-table experience tailored to your taste and skill level.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with light walking and standing required during foraging and cooking.
Wildlife
History
The Kaikoura region has strong Māori cultural heritage with traditional food gathering practices influencing local cuisine.
Conservation
Hapuku Kitchen emphasizes sustainable gardening and ethical animal care to reduce environmental impact and foster biodiversity.
The Hapuku Kitchen Limited
Spend a day at Hapuku Kitchen in Canterbury, New Zealand, foraging fresh ingredients and cooking a seasonal feast with chef Fiona. This private full-day class offers a hands-on farm-to-table experience tailored to your taste and skill level.
The Hapuku Kitchen Limited is a Kaikōura-based culinary studio delivering seasonal cooking classes, dining events, and private gatherings rooted in local, ethical food practices. Located in rural Kaikōura, Canterbury, the business focuses on hands-on learning: guests forage herbs and vegetables from the kitchen garden, participate in half-day and full-day classes, and learn techniques from chef Fiona. The Hapuku Kitchen offers public experiences such as The Hapuku Kitchen Experience – Full-Day Class and the Hapuku Kitchen Taste of the Farm – Half-Day Class, alongside private full-day and half-day classes for personalized instruction and dietary customization.
Dining events include The Supper Club at Hapuku Kitchen, regular private lunch or dinner services that can accommodate up to 24 guests, and curated private events for weddings, celebrations, and corporate gatherings. The Catch & Cook – Kai Moana Experience combines coastal fishing with in-kitchen preparation so guests can catch seafood and then learn to cook it on-site. Wine pairings and homemade, locally sourced beverages frequently accompany meals to highlight Kaikōura producers.
The Hapuku Kitchen emphasizes sustainability, seasonality, and a connection between landscape and plate. Food preparation centers on fresh, foraged, and locally farmed ingredients, and menus change with the seasons. Classes and events are designed for small groups to maintain an intimate atmosphere and focused instruction. Booking details, availability, and dietary accommodations are managed directly through The Hapuku Kitchen Limited. Reservations, pricing, and seasonal menus are available on request; the business offers tailored experiences for families, couples, food tourists, and corporate groups throughout the year.
Location
Kaikōura, Canterbury
Rural kitchen and garden setting
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Classes, supper club, catch & cook
Private Capacity
Up to 24
Private lunches or dinners
Local Focus
Seasonal menus
Foraged and locally sourced
Reserve a full-day class, Catch & Cook experience, supper club seat, or private event and taste Kaikōura’s seasonal bounty with chef-led instruction.
Communicate Dietary Needs
Inform the Hapuku Kitchen team of any allergies or dietary restrictions prior to your class for a fully customized menu.
Dress for Outdoor Activity
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear and clothes suitable for garden foraging and light farm work.
Book in Advance
Private classes are limited to small groups and fill up quickly, especially in peak season, so early booking is recommended.
Stay Hydrated and Bring Snack
Although meals are included, bring water and light snacks for comfort during transitions in outdoor sections.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet during outdoor foraging and farm activities.
Layered clothing
Adjust for changing temperatures during morning and afternoon.
spring
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from sun exposure during garden walks.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day.