Māha Restaurant

Māha Restaurant is located within the award-winning Wharepuke subtropical gardens in Kerikeri, housed in a converted American Army barracks. Run by chef owner Ming Poon and partner Dianne Langman, this establishment has been recognized in Cuisine Magazine’s “Local Favourites” list for its pan-Asian dining experience that merges Japanese-influenced flavours with Italian and Spanish cooking techniques.

Concept & Setting

Set within 2 hectares of exotic subtropical gardens, Māha offers indoor dining and a spacious outdoor deck overlooking lush plantings. The restaurant is part of the Wharepuke creative hub, which includes an art gallery, sculpture trail, and garden tours. The converted barracks building provides a charming, eclectic setting that’s light, modern, and full of character.

Cuisine & Menu Highlights

Māha serves seasonal, tapas-style dining using fresh, local Northland produce. Signature dishes include Southern Bluefin Tuna sashimi, Spanish Zarzuela with Northland Kingfish, and perfectly cooked fish, oysters, and duck. The menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal availability. Popular desserts include chocolate pudding and crème brûlée. An extensive drinks menu features carefully curated wines and cocktails highlighting New Zealand producers.

Ambience & Experience

• Tapas-style service allowing guests to pace their dining experience
• Indoor and outdoor dining with garden views
• Intimate, sophisticated setting suitable for couples
• Fully licensed with exceptional cocktail and wine selection
• Personalized, attentive service

Opening Hours & Service Notes

• Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• Closed Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays
• Reservations recommended

Distinctive Attributes

• Pan-Asian menu authentically blending Japanese, Italian, and Spanish influences
• Located within internationally recognized subtropical garden and sculpture park
• Award-winning chefs with decades of experience
• Integration with art gallery creating complete destination experience
• Featured in Cuisine Magazine for culinary excellence

Māha Restaurant offers a distinctive dining experience combining world-class cuisine with artistic surroundings. The commitment to seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, coupled with its unique pan-Asian approach and stunning garden setting, makes it one of Kerikeri’s premier dining destinations.