Kai Mata Restaurant — Restaurant in Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community

Kai Mata Restaurant – A Place Worth Returning To

Last night my wife, our child, and I enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Kai Mata Restaurant in Kerikeri. We were so happy with the experience that we came back again tonight to close out our little weekend break—and it was just as good the second time.

Warm Welcome

From the moment we arrived, Rosaleen, the front-of-house lady, made us feel right at home. She is kind, attentive, and always aware of what customers need. Her hospitality turned a simple dinner into something memorable.

Food Experience

The menu is short, easy to understand, and well explained. Every choice feels carefully considered. The food itself is delicious, full of flavor, and beautifully presented. It’s clear the chefs focus on quality over quantity.

Value & Atmosphere

Prices are very affordable, especially for the level of service and taste you get. The atmosphere is quiet, safe, and warm—the kind of place where families, couples, or even solo diners can feel comfortable and relaxed.

Why We Came Back

It’s not often that a restaurant makes you want to return two nights in a row, but Kai Mata managed exactly that. The combination of tasty food, fair prices, and Rosaleen’s excellent service left us with no hesitation.

⭐ Rating: 5/5 – Highly recommended for anyone...

Booked a table for four. I was entertaining clients so wanted to show them something special. The food and service here is excellent. The creamed pāua and bacon was exceptional, and the mini fry bread turned the dish into a very delicious twist on an iconic Kiwi dish. My duck main was fantastic also, and the accompanying side dishes were just right. Then there was the Kahlua Crème Brûlée. Years ago I created an Espresso crème brûlée for the menu at a restaurant I was cooking at. This was equally as good, a great alternative to an after dinner coffee that I avoid knowing it would keep me awake!. My guests were equally impressed with their meals. One or two small things they’ll iron out once they settle in, and ideally better seating arrangements will come in time. I really hope the local community supports these guys. Prices are very reasonable for the quality presented so it is nice to have an alternative to the other two restaurants in town that put themselves in the same category but can never seem to get everything right. We...

Kai Mata arrived in Kerikeri without the fanfare it deserves. This is a fantastic restaurant tucked away on the main street, but serving gourmet food to tickle the taste buds. This was only our second outing to this venue, the first time the comment I gave to the others at the table regarding the Paua entree was "off the hook" - the rest of the meal continued at this level. 2nd time - I had one let down, I wish I hadn't eaten at all that day, to have hunger finally satisfied by dishes served here would be an out of body experience. The hostess ( I'm sorry I can't remember your name ) was friendly, engaging and professional and made great cocktails. Price wise very, realistic compared to some other gastro venues and this will become our go to restaurant for those...