Travelling Tastebuds: Bay of Plenty

Hitting the road for a trip acoss the East Coast? Here's all the best cafes, bars and restaurants to add to your itinery.

Hahei - The Pour House

This family-owned bar and restaurant is the perfect spot for a home-brewed beer and dinner. On a warm summers night, definitely grab a table under the fairy lights, or if it's a cooler evening, grab a seat at one of the snug indoor tables.

Personal pick: Macadamia & Kelp Crumbed Fish and Chips

Hot Water Beach - Hot Waves Cafe

This tucked-away cafe is super cute - I'd recommend heading to the garden where they have tables surrounded by handmade art and sculptures. The service here is great too and they make a mean coffee! There's plenty on thier breakfast menu and lots of goodies in their cabinet, even a wee gift shop at the back.

Personal pick: Coconut milk flat white with date scone

Whangamata - Six Forty Six

If you're passing through Whangamata definitely make a stop at the Six Forty Six cafe. They have great coffee and heaps of dairy/gluten/refined sugar-free options, including raw vegan treats - making it the perfect place for anyone with specific dietary requirements.

Personal pick: Best Ugly Bagels with berry compote, almond crumble and whipped coconut cream

Mt Maunganui - Latitude 37

For a fancier night out, grab a table at Latitude 37. Their menu features delicious cuisine from oysters to falafel burgers. When it comes to drinks, ask for thier cocktail of the day - they're only $10!

Personal pick: Tapas platter to share between 2-4

Mt Maunganui - Polar Dessert Bar

If you're in the Mount my best advice is skip dessert at the restaurant and head to the Polar Dessert Bar instead - You won't regret it! You know those cold plate rolled ice cream bowls people are always posting on social media? This is them. They even have donuts, crepes, bubble tea, and Belgian waffles, so there's something for everybody here.

Personal pick: Chocolate, Salted Caramel and Almond cold plate ice cream with hot Belgium chocolate sauce, topped with crushed Tim Tams and Nutella

Hamilton - Zenders

When do you ever go on a south-bound roadie without passing through the tron... so when you do, make sure to stop for brunch at Zenders cafe. This Euro-style cafe and venue is packed with Dutch heritage and have a great traditional menu to accompany it.

Personal pick: Brioche pancakes with caramelised banana, berry compote, real maple syrup and mascarpone