Tag: gluten and dairy free queenstown

Queenstown is one of the easier places in New Zealand to eat gluten free, partly because of the strict gluten-free labelling laws and partly because the restaurant scene here is adventurous and allergy-aware. As a favourite snowboarding destination I’m a regular visitor. Honestly, the dairy-free makes things trickier, and the ski resorts require a bit of preparation. I’ve covered off guide covers everywhere from central Queenstown restaurants to Arrowtown, the Gibbston Valley wineries, and what to eat on the mountain or the trail.

Whether you’re visiting for snowboarding, hiking, or simply soaking up the stunning views, these local tips and trusted gluten-free spots will help you enjoy every bite without worry.

Let’s dive into the best gluten-free and dairy free eats and essential travel advice to make your Queenstown trip safe, delicious, and unforgettable.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

Safe gluten-free, dairy free dishes (and what to avoid)
Some mouth watering dining options in key areas
What to think about if you’re joining a tour or day trip
Availability of foods at the ski resorts
What to take hiking or mountain biking
Supermarkets, websites and tips for gluten free, dairy free travellers

Gluten Free Labelling and Menu Information

If you’re visiting from overseas, it’s helpful to know that New Zealand has very strict gluten-free food standards. For a product or dish to be labelled “gluten free” here, it must have no detectable gluten, oats, or malted grains, and undergo rigorous testing to meet these rules. This is slightly different from some countries where “gluten free” can sometimes mean less strict limits. In New Zealand, sensitive testing methods can detect even tiny traces of gluten, making certified gluten-free foods among the safest for coeliacs.

However, you might also see terms like “gluten friendly” or “no gluten added” on menus, which don’t have the same strict requirements, often this is a result of these same high standards and means its made without gluten and they are trying their best but it is not a dedicated facility, however it could also mean there is a shared fryer or toaster (eek). As such could pose a risk for you, we recommend checking reviews on sites like Google Maps, Find Me Gluten Free or local Facebook Groups to see what people have said about the venue, recently especially useful if you can tell if the person is coeliac or otherwise highly sensitive.

You may also find places ask if you’re coeliac when you ask about gluten free, if you are sensitive to cross contamination just say yes. All they are really asking is do I need to be careful.

You will also see “may contain traces of gluten” on packaging or menu’s, this is usually a liability statement and is not mandatory. In many cases means the product is manufactured on shared equipment, again check the manufacturer’s website or local facebook groups if you are worried to see what people have said about a product but search first, often the question has been asked before.

What about the Oats?

As you may be aware internationally, there are different approaches to allowing oats in the gluten-free diet. In places that do allow oats, only those free of gluten contamination (‘pure’ oats) are recommended for people with coeliac disease, as standard commercial brands of oats are often highly contaminated with wheat gluten. Australian and New Zealand food laws does not currently allow oats to be labelled ‘gluten free’ so you will not find products with Oats labelled as such here. Coeliac Australia has a whole page on Oats.

Must-Try Dishes with Gluten‑Free, Dairy Free Tips

• South Island Blue Cod – Blue cod is prized for its delicate, flaky white flesh and mild flavour. It is unique to New Zealand’s South Island, you won’t find it fresher than this anywhere else.
• Whitebait Fritters – A South Island delicacy, whitebait fritters are small, crispy pancakes made from tiny fish. They usually contain flour, so inquire if a safe alternative is available.
• Fish & Chips – Sitting by the lakefront with a box of fresh fish and hot chips, with tomato sauce on the side, and seagulls circling overhead. Traditionally battered fish is off-limits if you’re gluten-free, but there are places that cater to us in Queenstown such as Eric’s.
• Kumara Fries – Made from sweet potatoes (kumara), these fries are a delicious alternative to regular chips. Look for places that fry them separately to avoid cross-contamination.
• The Classic Kiwi Meat Pie – No trip to New Zealand is complete without trying a meat pie, flaky pastry, savoury slow-cooked filling, and a squirt of tomato sauce on top. You might have to look a little harder to find gluten free pastry but its worth it.
• Lamb – New Zealand lamb is famous worldwide — tender, flavoursome, and often served roasted or in hearty stews. Many lamb dishes are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check sauces or coatings.
• Asian-Inspired Dishes – Queenstown’s vibrant food scene includes excellent Asian cuisine, from Japanese sushi to Thai curries and Chinese dumplings. Many places cater to gluten-free or allergy-friendly needs; just ask about soy sauce and cross-contamination.
• New Zealand Cheese and Charcuterie – Local artisan cheeses, cured meats, and olives make for great picnic or tasting options, often naturally gluten-free and perfect for lakeside snacking, if you’re lactose free you may find some of the hard cheese suitable but experiment at home first.
• Flat White Coffee – Not a dish, but a quintessential Kiwi coffee experience, creamy, smooth, and amust try. A heads-up, oat milk isn’t gluten-free here, and lactose free milk also isn’t as common in cafés in New Zealand. If you ask for an alternative milk and are sensitive, ask for a dedicated or clean, not rinsed jug
• Pavlova – This classic Kiwi dessert is a must-try — a crisp meringue shell with a marshmallowy centre, topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream. It’s naturally gluten-free and perfect for a sweet treat. If you’re dairy free watch out for the whipped cream
• Cookie Time Cookies – A Kiwi sweet treat, Cookie Time’s classic cookies are beloved nationwide. They do have gluten-free options (but not dairy free), and can be found in supermarkets and dairies (convenience stores) or they have a store in Queenstown
• Hokey Pokey Ice Cream – No Kiwi dessert list is complete without hokey pokey — vanilla ice cream loaded with crunchy honeycomb toffee pieces. Check local dairies or ice cream shops for suitable options. If you’re dairy free as well like me look out for vegan ice cream.

What to Avoid or Ask Carefully About

• A number of places with no gluten added options have a shared fryer or toaster, so ask questions.
• Vegemite (contains gluten unless you buy the GF version)
• Soy sauce unless gluten free (often in marinades and Asian sauces)
• Cakes/pastries unless gluten free, check for dairy
• Beer, gluten free beer isn’t super common but NZ brands with gluten free offerings include Kereru and Scott’s, you will also find low gluten or gluten reduced beers.
• Hot Chocolate, if you’re dairy free enquire if the hot chocolate powder contains dairy

Delicious Queenstown Gluten-Free and Dairy Free Dining Options

There’s no shortage of suitable options in Queenstown. We’ve also covered options in the nearby area’s which we’re sure you’ll also be visiting.

Places I have personally eaten at since going gluten and dairy free are marked with an * the others all have solid reviews which I would consider dining at.

About me? What are my standards for gluten free? I’m not coeliac (not tested) but I do react to crumbs in a toaster, so try to avoid cross contamination and will not use shared fryers, toasters etc and I am also lactose free although generally avoid all dairy when I’m away from home.

Just make sure you ask questions, I’m from Auckland and found the number of places advertised as “no gluten added” had cross contamination, think shared fryers or toasters a headache in comparison to home. As is the case in some places staff knowledge varies so if in doubt ask a couple of people.

If you’re travelling in a group check if you need to make a booking, being spontaneous is great but if it might result in you needing to make alternative arrangements.

Central

• Balls and Bangles* – Specialising in Bagels and donuts, this cafe (also does takeaway) also caters to gluten free, vegetarian and vegan needs and the staff are knowledgeable about what is suitable. There is a seperate toaster as well if you need it coeliac safe.
• BeSpoke Kitchen – Known for gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly options.
• Blue Kanu – Offers Pacific Rim fusion with great gluten-free choices, reputed to have a seperate gluten free menu.
• Erik’s Fish and Chips* – Classic fish and chips menu with locally sourced ingredients. Certified by Coeliac NZ, everything is gluten and dairy free. If you’re also halal, there is no bacon, pork or alcohol on site and halal certificates are available for all the chicken and lamb they purchase.
• Fergburger* – Its a Queenstown institution with World-famous burgers with gluten-free options including a seperate fryer for the fries. Be warned, the queues can be long but they have phone ordering available so you can avoid the wait.
• Madam Woo* – Malaysian / Singapore style food that caters to gluten free, dairy free, and vegan customers with knowledgeable staff.
• Margo’s Queenstown – Mexican food with clear gluten-friendly markers on the menu, check with staff as not all these options are coeliac safe, however staff are knowledgeable.
• odd saint – another breakfast / lunch option catering to a range of dietary needs with knowledgeable staff
• Public Kitchen and Bar – Restaurant and Bar with a gluten free menu, caters to a variety of dietary needs
• Saigon Kingdom – Vietnamese cuisine with gluten-free and vegan / vegetarian options available.
• Tanoshi Cow Lane* – Japanese izakaya with dishes both as gluten free, vegetarian. The staff is allergy-aware, and can confirm what can be adapted.
• White & Wong’s – Asian fusion restaurant known to cater to a range of dietary needs with knowledgeable staff.
• Yonder* – Suitable choices are clearly marked on the menu and they have a seperate fryer and vegan / vegetarian options plus knowledgeable staff

Frankton

• Joe’s Garage Five Mile – another chain restaurant but this eatery is unpretentious, full of heart, and perfect for lingering over great food
• Love Chicken Queenstown* – Celiac-friendly burgers with lots of delicious choices.
• Saigon Kingdom* – Vietnamese cuisine with gluten-free and vegan / vegetarian options available.
• Thai Siam Kitchen – Thai place making eating out easy if you’re gluten free
• The Shelter Bar and Kitchen – Relaxed spot in Frankton serving hearty, locally inspired fare and craft drinks, with options to suit gluten-free diners.

Arrowtown

• Aosta – An elegant, intimate restaurant catering to gluten free diners and where Italian cooking techniques meet Central Otago’s finest seasonal produce.
• Bendix Stables – Has some options for gluten, dairy and vegan diners
• La Rumbla – Spanish-inspired tapas bar and restaurant where Catalonia meets Central Otago. Gluten Free diners are well taken care of.
• Postmasters Kitchen + Bar – The most beautiful view of Arrowtown from the restaurant, menu has gluten and dairy free options.
• Slow Cuts – Known for its burgers, slow-cooked meats, and relaxed vibe, perfect after a day exploring. They offer a gluten-free burger and friendly, knowledgeable service
• The Shed Arrowtown* – Gluten Free Fish and Chips, tacos and toasties, the owner’s wife is coeliac.

Gibbston Valley

• Kinross Winery, Cellar Door & Cottages – Tucked into the heart of Gibbston Valley, Kinross serves up hearty, locally sourced plates under the vines with a side of breathtaking Central Otago views. Gluten Free options are clearly marked
• Gibbston Tavern – Offers gluten-free options along with local wines.
• Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant – Set against the stunning backdrop of Gibbston Valley, they focus on seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine expertly paired with their renowned wines. Gluten Free options are not marked on menu but staff are known to be accommodating.

Joining a Tour or Day Trip?

If you’re booking any guided experiences or day trips, it’s always worth asking about food upfront, you might be pleasantly surprised. Many operators are more accommodating than you’d expect if you give them advance notice.

A good example is the TSS Earnslaw steamship cruise on Lake Wakatipu, I enquired about gluten free options for the BBQ lunch and they confirmed they could accommodate it. I didn’t end up going but it’s reassuring to know that even iconic experiences like that are worth asking about rather than assuming they can’t cater for you.

The same applies to wine tours, guided hikes, and any experience that includes a meal, a quick email or call before you book can make all the difference.

Eating at the Ski Resorts

If winter sports are your thing, don’t assume the mountain will have you covered — but don’t panic either. In my experience Queenstown’s resorts do make an effort, with allergen information available and generally knowledgeable staff. That said, suitable options tend to be limited — think slices, yoghurt, fruit, chilli, soup, or salad — and if you’re a late luncher like me, pickings can get slim.

My advice: pack a lunch for at least your first day. That way you can scope out your options without being hangry at 2pm, and either enjoy something unexpected or fall back on what you brought.

Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak and The Remarkables are run by the same organisation so food preparation standards should be similar, but fellow travellers have flagged that you need to be more careful here. There should be some packaged options to tide you over in a pinch.

Cardrona

A solid option for gluten free riders. The Base Bar is fully gluten free, and the Base Cafe has a separate fryer for chips alongside a gluten free slice (usually brownie) and crisps. Head upstairs to The Mezz for an allergy menu with a few more choices.

The Remarkables

Staff here were genuinely helpful — knowledgeable about ingredients and happy to pull out the allergen list without being asked. Hot food options were limited but there was usually one suitable choice, typically a soup or chilli. I’ve also seen comments online about a dedicated fryer, though I didn’t test that myself.

Treble Cone

Your best bet is the main base building. Gluten free possibilities include some of the main meals, salads, sushi, and chips if they’re using a separate fryer. Check the cabinet near the coffee counter for sweet treats too.

If skiing or snowboarding in Japan is on your list (and it should be) I’ve been in Nagano & Niigata recently and did a post on Gluten and Dairy Free skiing and Snowboarding in Nagano and Niigata you might want to bookmark

Gluten Free & Dairy Free for Tramping & Mountain Biking

One of the big reasons people come to Queenstown is as a base for day or multi-day tramps (hikes) or epic mountain bike trails, and this is where food planning with dietary needs gets a little more creative.

The good news: it’s absolutely doable, and honestly, you have more options than you might think.

For trip planning beyond the Great Walks, the Tramping in New Zealand Facebook Group is worth joining, locals give genuinely useful advice on lesser-known routes too.

What to look for in stores: Both supermarkets and outdoor gear stores stock backpacker meals — the boil-and-add-water pouches. Ask staff to help you find options that match your restrictions; the range has improved a lot. Staff at outdoor stores like Macpac or Bivouac tend to be hikers themselves and often surprisingly helpful.

How to think about food on the trail: Take a cue from what any smart tramper does — plan for freshness to decline. Gluten free bread or wraps do best on day one; for anything longer, harder options like bagels, crackers, or rice cakes hold up far better. A rice and vegetable salad or boiled eggs is a great first-day lunch before you transition to more packable options.

Reliable multi-day staples (for GF, DF, and combinations): Packets of tuna or salmon, salami, tube nut butters (look for Roam or Pic’s — Pic’s is in the supermarket, Roam is online), hard cheese if that works for you, energy balls, seed-and-nut based muesli bars, dried fruit and nuts, roasted chickpeas, and apples all travel well and have minimal waste to pack out.

The golden rule: test everything at home first. What sounds good in theory at the trailhead doesn’t always hold up on day three.

Gluten‑Free, Dairy Free Groceries

Queenstown grocery stores carry all the usual Kiwi brands with a solid gluten-free selection. Depending on the store, you’ll find dedicated gluten-free sections or products mixed through the regular aisles, so it’s worth a wander either way.

Here’s a tip that’s genuinely life-changing when you’re juggling multiple restrictions: before you go anywhere near a supermarket, download the Woolworths, New World, or Pak’nSave app. All three let you filter by dietary needs and show full allergen information for every product — which means you can cross-check against all of your restrictions at once, not just one. Find what works for you at home, then walk straight to it in store. No label squinting, no second-guessing. Just a heads up — naturally safe products won’t always appear in filtered results, so use it as a starting point rather than the whole picture.

If you have flexibility on where you shop, head to Frankton for the larger supermarkets and a better gluten-free range. Central Queenstown stores are smaller format with a more limited selection.

Must-Have Websites

• TripAdvisor: www.tripadvisor.com
• Find Me Gluten Free: www.findmeglutenfree.com
• Food Standards Australia New Zealand: www.foodstandards.gov.au

Packing Tips for Gluten‑Free, Dairy Free Travellers

• Bring a few protein bars, snacks or backpacker meals for the emergencies
• A few sandwich or snack sized zip lock bags if you need to decant snacks
• If language could be a barrier, create and print translation cards and have your favourite translation app, read our article on allergy cards vs. translation apps to know what to use and when
• Any medications you might need either day to day or if you accidentally eat or drink the wrong thing
• Some wet wipes, a pocket package or two of tissues and a mask
• Have a small travel bag or zip lock bag to put the above in

Final Tips from a Gluten Free, Dairy Free Traveller

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help
• Always check sauces and shared fryers
• Use reviews from other gluten free or coeliac travellers, they’re gold

With a little prep and the right tools, you can enjoy the food without panic.

If you want everything in one place, your dietary restrictions listed in the local language, an allergy card to show restaurant staff, key phrases for when your allergy card isn’t enough plus local foods to try and any watch outs, the Essentials Travel Pack builds it all for your exact combination. It gives you what you need in minutes, not hours.

Take it further, at your own pace

All our guides, tools, and advice are organised by level in one place — an easy page to bookmark and return to as you build confidence. Because food shouldn’t be the hardest part of your trip.

START HERE

FAQ

Jo

Jo is the founder of Globally Sauced, a travel platform for dietary restricted travellers and is gluten and dairy free. When not outdoors or travelling, she loves to empower people with dietary restrictions so they can explore the world safely.

Globally Sauced offers verified restaurant recommendations, country-specific guides, food label / menu translations, and more downloadable resources for gluten-free, dairy-free, allergy-conscious and other dietary restricted travellers. Learn more at globallysauced.com

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