Best Pies in the Waikato

We love pies. Like seriously love them. And in the Waikato region, we found places that don’t just serve a pie — they celebrate one. A good pie is crusty, generous, filled with flavour, and makes you stop mid-bite to quietly say “that’s a good decision”. Here are our top stops — pull over, roll the window down, grab a hot one and let the pastry crumb journey begin.

Tūrangi Bakery – The Classic Road-stop

Why we stopped: It’s in our hometown, so it’s always been an easy go-to. Why we encourage you to stop: it’s a quick detour off the main road, with a few parks outside and a bigger carpark just next door. You’ll find a great selection, friendly service and those pies that feel like home.

Highlights:

• Old-school bakery atmosphere — nothing flash, just honest Kiwi baking.
• Generous fillings and crisp pastry that hit the spot every time.
• Perfect pit stop before or after hiking, biking or skiing on Mount Ruapehu.

Try: Mince & cheese — reliable, warm and comforting.

Paetiki Bakery Café – Pie Heaven in Taupō

Why we stopped: Because we know the pies are good. It’s the kind of place where tradies line up early, and that’s always a sure sign business is booming. Be mindful there are two Paetiki Bakeries in Taupō but to be honest they are both just as good as the other.

Highlights:

• Huge selection of pastries, sammies and sweets alongside the pies.
• Pastry with crunch — tasty and crisp without creating a total mess.
• Generous fillings that leave you satisfied.
• Reasonably priced with ample parking right outside.

Try: Pepper steak with creamy mushroom sauce — takes the classic pie to another level.

Ngāpuna Bakery – Rotorua’s Hidden Gem

Why we stopped: A bit off the tourist radar in Rotorua’s Ngāpuna area, making it feel like we’d stumbled on a local secret. Honestly, we’d driven past plenty of times but when the laundromat pulled us in, it felt rude not to contribute to the local community. And that’s how you discover the best spots.

Highlights:

• Perfect stop if you’re heading into or out of Rotorua’s geothermal attractions.
• Solid pie size and pastry strength — ideal for eating in the car without falling apart.
• The number of tradies lining up was our first clue it had to be good.
• Friendly vibe with staff who make you feel welcome, plus an awesome selection.
• Parking bay fits about 10 cars — easy outside peak times, trickier later in the day but worth the effort.

Try: Mince & jalapeño (my pick) or the chicken & mushroom (Toni’s favourite).

Bella Pane – The Gourmet Pie Break

Why we stopped: An easy divert off the main highway made Bella Pane too tempting to miss. Not only are the pies delicious but the service is top-notch, making it one of those stops you actually look forward to.

Highlights:

• Flaky, golden pastry with butter-rich layers — you can taste the care in every bite.
• Rectangle pies that stand out from the usual round classics.
• Creative fillings like brisket & kumara alongside the classics, so there’s always something new to try.
• Good parking nearby, making it hassle-free for a quick bakery break.
• A lovely park across the road and restrooms just down the way, so you can sit, relax and actually enjoy your goodies instead of rushing.

Try: I loved the beef & jalapeño, while Toni swears by the brisket & kumara both packed with flavour and a notch above your standard pie.

Viands Brothers Bakery – The Award-Winner

Why we stopped: When heading north, this is one we almost always pass by — and if it’s an early start, it usually turns into our morning tea stop. With a great selection of pies and goodies, plus parking on either side of the road, it’s an easy and worthwhile detour.

Highlights:

• Big reputation with pies that live up to the hype — generous meat chunks, standout pastry and a loyal following.
• A great option if you’re going all-in on a pie mission.
• Ample variety means you can stick with the classics or branch out into something more adventurous.

Try: We’ve tried them all and enjoyed the steak & cheese but honestly — don’t be afraid to branch out. Every pie we’ve had here has been delicious.

Raglan Bakery – Surf Town Pie Stop

Why we stopped: This isn’t the kind of bakery you divert to on a long road trip but when you’re visiting friends in town or heading out for a surf, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite. A true local surf town meets local bakery kind of goodness.

Highlights:

• A pie that suits the beach-day mood — grab one and head down to the water’s edge.
• Classic fillings done well, no fuss and plenty of flavour.
• Friendly, informal setting that feels just like Raglan itself — laid-back and welcoming.

Try: The bacon & egg pie — simple, satisfying and spot-on after a dip or before a stroll along the shoreline.

Lunchbar Eighty8 – Hamilton’s Pie Hangout

Why we stopped: Hamilton isn’t just city sprawl — it has great lunch spots, and this place is proof. We loved the story behind the owners and the way they’ve built a reputation for pies that stand out.

Highlights:

• Known for their great variety of seafood pies — pāua, scallop, mussel and more.
• Good parking out front, so no stress finding a space.
• Plenty of seating inside, but we prefer to grab and go and enjoy our pies down by the river.

Try: Honestly, any of the seafood pies. They’re full of flavour and a real point of difference in the Waikato pie scene.

Final Thoughts

The Waikato may be famed for rolling farmland, geothermal wonders and river trails but don’t sleep on its pie game. From the no-nonsense roadside stop to the gourmet twist, these bakeries deliver. Whether you’re hungry after a hike, on the road between towns or just want a proper Kiwi pie moment — you’ll find it here.
We’ll keep the hot coffee ready, the pastry crisp and our pie plates hungry.