What To Eat In Porirua

Artwork on the wall above table at Gear Eatery, Porirua.

Whether you want a laidback brekkie at a beachside café or tasty burgers at a historical homestead, there's much to feast on in Porirua.

Words by: John Son

Photography by: Anna Briggs

Beautiful beaches, stunning walks and a diverse community make Porirua an unmissable stop for anyone visiting Wellington. With a fast-growing culinary scene thrown in the mix, locals are treated to dishes that rival some of the best in the region. Here’s our guide to eating your way around Porirua.

Turkish Eggs at t bay café

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26 Whitehouse Road, Tītahi Bay, Porirua

t bay café is a true Tītahi Bay community hub, both in terms of location and in the way it effortlessly draws locals together. The Turkish eggs are one of the most popular items here, generously served with garlic yoghurt, spiced Turkish sauce, chilli oil, hazelnut dukkah and coriander, accompanied by delightfully toasted Turkish bread. This dish can also be made gluten-free.

Fish and Chips at Plimmerton Fish Supply

2 Beach Road, Plimmerton, Porirua

Situated a stone’s throw from the spectacular local beach, the fish and chips at Plimmerton Fish Supply are certainly worth the drive. From fillets to fritters, crumbed, battered, or between burger buns, Plimmerton Fish Supply serves the freshest of the best kaimoana — as well as toasties, spring rolls, and decadent desserts.

Green Curry at Tuk Tuk Thai

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15 Hartham Place South, N, Porirua

This well-appointed Thai restaurant in the heart of Porirua’s city centre offers a feast both for the eyes and the stomach. Settle into the intricately detailed surroundings as you tuck into Tuk Tuk’s excellent rendition of a classic Thai favourite, green curry. Make your dinner spread one to remember by adding a pad thai, tom yum soup, or any of the other dishes on the extensive menu.

Loaded Toast at Local Authority

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shop 1/1 Walton Leigh Avenue, Porirua City Centre, Porirua

A proven local favourite near the city centre, Local Authority is a cosy café that packs more than a punch. Among its beautifully ornate brunch dishes, you’ll find a tempting range of loaded toasts and toasties. When it comes to popular picks, you simply can’t go past an all-time classic, the smashed avo on toast.

Waffles and Wellness Bowls at Sushil's

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27 Aotea Drive, Aotea, Porirua

Take one look at the menu, and Sushil’s relentless focus on health and fitness is clear to see. The protein waffles and wellness bowls stand out, which are coincidentally among the most popular items. The tacos are another signature Musclechef creation (choose from buttermilk fried chicken, smoky pulled pork, and Cajun spice jackfruit), and with pasta, burgers, and an impressive array of other dishes, there are plenty of options whether you’re heading here for breakfast or lunch. And with all dietary requirements looked after, the cafe goes the extra mile to ensure no one is left out.

Neat Porirua Places

Plimmerton Fish Supply

Two cardboard trays being passed over the counter; one with deep fried brownie bites and churros in the other.
Place Porirua

Every happy neighbourhood needs a good fish and chip spot, and for lucky Plimmerton locals that exists in the form of Plimmerton Fish Supply.

Supply Room

A close up of a giant, tall burger on a table.
Place Porirua
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Is there an eatery in Porirua with a view better than the one at Supply Room? You’d be hard-pressed to find one.

Karehana Bay Beach

Looking across the sand covered bay where there are tree covered hills next to the beach.
Place Porirua

Tucked away in a small nook at the north-western end of Plimmerton, Karehana Bay is often overlooked by visitors to Porirua.

Kai Tahi

The dining area inside Kai Tahi Porirua.
Place Porirua
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Porirua is well-known as a proud harbour city, with its glistening waters an indelible part of its social and aesthetic identity.