The five pantry staples present in nearly every NZ kitchen

Nikki Birrell on the five pantry items that say ‘New Zealand kitchen’. Step into any New Zealand kitchen, and you’re likely to find a few common denominators lurking in the pantry. While our culinary tastes have expanded well beyond meat and three vege, certain staples have stood the test of time.

What we keep in our pantries says a lot about who we are. These staples aren’t just practical ingredients, they’re woven into the fabric of Kiwi culture, representing childhood memories, family traditions, and the unfailing ability to whip up something delicious with whatever is on hand. Whether it’s a quick Marmite toastie or a last-minute batch of scones, these humble ingredients are what make a New Zealand kitchen feel like home.



Whether it’s a nostalgic nod to childhood or a practical ingredient that saves the day, these five essentials are found in kitchens across the board in Aotearoa. 1. Marmite (or Vegemite, but let’s be honest — Marmite).