Food and Beverage
Booking.com Launches Exclusive Ocean-To-Table Kina Experience on New Zealand’s Tutukaka Coast
SYDNEY – Booking.com is bringing food-focused travelers an extraordinary culinary adventure on New Zealand’s stunning Northland coastline with the launch of the Kina Cottage, a unique “dive and dine” experience celebrating one of Aotearoa’s most distinctive delicacies.
Partnering with acclaimed Kiwi chef Kia Kanuta, the travel platform will offer Genius members a chance to dive for their own dinner – literally – in an immersive ocean-to-table experience centered around kina, the prized sea urchin native to New Zealand waters.
From Ocean Floor to Dinner Plate
The Kina Cottage experience begins with guests heading out on Tutukaka’s pristine coastline with Dive Now, where they’ll sustainably hand-harvest kina from the crystal-clear waters. The day’s catch then becomes the star of a multi-course private dining experience prepared by Chef Kanuta, who will share the cultural stories and culinary traditions behind this global delicacy.
Located in picturesque Tutukaka on Northland’s spectacular coast, the experience offers more than just exceptional food – it’s designed to connect travelers with the local marine environment while supporting sustainable harvesting practices.
Tapping Into Food Tourism Trends
The launch comes on the heels of Booking.com’s Taste of Home Asia Pacific Report, which revealed food as a primary driver for travel decisions. The data shows that nearly 9 in 10 Australian travelers (88%) who have taken food-focused trips often select their holiday destinations based specifically on culinary experiences.
“Aotearoa’s Tutukaka Coast is one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines, rich in nature, cuisines and culture,” said Todd Lacey, Regional Manager, Oceania for Booking.com. “This sumptuous bookable foodie experience at one of our best holiday homes is a chance to welcome the world into our corner of New Zealand, to enjoy our kaimoana (sea food) at a breathtaking destination.”
The Complete Experience
For just NZ$20.11 (approximately AU$17.72), one lucky Booking.com traveler and a guest will receive:
- Personalized hosted kina diving experience with Dive Now
- Bespoke dinner menu featuring the day’s kina catch, prepared by Chef Kia Kanuta
- Daily breakfast and snacks from local makers, producers and chefs
- Return flights (domestic or international, depending on location)
- Car rental or transfers
- Three nights’ accommodation at the Kina Cottage (November 20-23, 2025)
The experience will be available for booking on a first-come, first-served basis starting October 23 at 10am AEDT, exclusively for Booking.com Genius members.
Lacey emphasized that the Kina Cottage represents a broader trend in New Zealand travel: “Food is at the heart of many quintessentially Kiwi bach stays, and the Kina Cottage exemplifies this trend amongst travellers today.”
For more information and to book the Booking.com Kina Cottage, visit: booking.com/hotel/nz/the-kina-cottage.html
For media inquiries, contact the Booking.com AU press room at bookingau@havasred.com
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