Halal food in New Zealand refers to food prepared according to Islamic dietary laws, with certification provided by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ). While New Zealand is not a Muslim-majority country, it has a growing Muslim population and is a major exporter of halal meat to Muslim countries worldwide. Explore New Zealand travel for more information. Explore halal certification for more information.
Halal food accessibility is good in major cities, particularly Auckland, with a diverse range of ethnic restaurants catering to Muslim residents and visitors.
How Accessible Is Halal Food in New Zealand?
Halal food accessibility varies by location:
Auckland: Best halal options with diverse restaurants Wellington: Growing halal scene Christchurch: Moderate options Queenstown: Limited but available Smaller towns: Very limited, plan ahead
Major cities have halal restaurants, butchers, and supermarket products.
Popular Halal Foods in New Zealand
Available halal cuisines include:
Ethnic restaurants:
- Indian: Curry houses, tandoori
- Malaysian and Indonesian
- Middle Eastern: Kebabs, shawarma
- Turkish: Döner, pide
- Chinese halal options
New Zealand specialties (at halal venues):
- Lamb dishes
- Seafood: Green-lipped mussels, fish
- Meat pies (at halal bakeries)
Supermarket products:
- FIANZ-certified meats
- Halal chicken and lamb
- Imported halal products
Halal Certification in New Zealand
FIANZ (Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand) provides halal certification:
- Meat processing: Major export certification
- Restaurants: Look for FIANZ certificate
- Products: Check for halal logo
- Internationally recognized: Accepted in Muslim countries
New Zealand is a significant halal meat exporter to Malaysia, Indonesia, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Is New Zealand a Muslim Country?
No, New Zealand is not a Muslim country:
- Secular nation: Christianity historically dominant
- Muslim population: Approximately 60,000 (1.3%)
- Growing community: Immigration increasing numbers
- Religious freedom: Mosques and Islamic centers exist
- Welcoming society: Generally inclusive
Best Areas for Halal Food
Auckland
- Sandringham: Known as “curry mile” with Indian restaurants
- Ponsonby: Diverse dining options
- City Centre: Various halal restaurants
- Dominion Road: Ethnic eateries
Wellington
- Cuba Street: Some halal options
- Courtenay Place: International restaurants
- Newtown: Multicultural food
Christchurch
- City center: Limited but growing
- Riccarton: Some halal restaurants
- Near mosques: Usually have nearby options
Queenstown
- Tourist area: Limited halal
- Indian restaurants: Some halal options
- Self-catering: May be necessary
Is New Zealand Safe for Muslims?
New Zealand is generally safe and welcoming:
- Inclusive society: Strong anti-discrimination laws
- Muslim community: Established and growing
- Mosques: In major cities
- Prayer facilities: At some universities and airports
- Christchurch tragedy (2019): Led to increased support for Muslim community
Halal Shopping
Supermarkets:
- Countdown and New World: Some halal products
- Asian supermarkets: Halal imports
- Halal butchers: In Auckland and Wellington
Online options:
- Halal meat delivery services
- Online halal grocery stores
Practical Tips
- Auckland: Best halal food scene 2 Compare with halal.