
Blue Kanu
A vibrant Queenstown gem offering a unique 'Polynesian' fusion of Pacific and Asian flavors in a cozy, art-filled setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Blue Kanu

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Queenstown gem offering a unique 'Polynesian' fusion of Pacific and Asian flavors in a cozy, art-filled setting.
"Blue Kanu creates memories with incredible food, a magical atmosphere, and touches that show they care."
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended, especially for groups, as the restaurant can get busy.
Ask for Recommendations
The staff are knowledgeable and can offer great suggestions to enhance your meal.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Polynesian Fusion
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique 'Polynasian' Cuisine
Experience a vibrant fusion of Pacifica and Asian flavors, creating a unique 'Polynesian' culinary journey.

Tender Slow Braised Pork Ribs
Fall-off-the-bone tender pork ribs glazed in a sticky, savory sauce, a dream dish for many.

Vibrant Polynesian-Inspired Ambiance
Immerse yourself in a cozy, candlelit atmosphere with distinctive Polynesian decor and art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended, especially for groups, as the restaurant can get busy.
Ask for Recommendations
The staff are knowledgeable and can offer great suggestions to enhance your meal.
Explore 'Trust the Wok'
Consider the four-course chef's selection for a curated culinary adventure.
Seating Options
Choose outdoor seating for people-watching or inside for the full Polynesian vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are recommended, especially for groups, as the restaurant can get busy.
Ask for Recommendations
The staff are knowledgeable and can offer great suggestions to enhance your meal.
Explore 'Trust the Wok'
Consider the four-course chef's selection for a curated culinary adventure.
Seating Options
Choose outdoor seating for people-watching or inside for the full Polynesian vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Blue Kanu is lauded for its unique 'Polynesian' fusion cuisine and vibrant, cozy atmosphere, making for a memorable dining experience. While many praise the delicious and flavorful dishes, attentive service, and creative cocktails, some find certain dishes disappointing or lacking in flavor, with concerns also raised about portion sizes in set menus and value for money on occasion.
"Always my favourite in Queenstown, and this time was even better than the last!
I had a seat outside which was nice as dining on my own, so lots of people watching to do!
Sitting inside though is also highly recommended as it has such a nice vibe and is decorated in Polynesian style.
I had lots of different food, my favourite being the dumplings, goat bao buns and Fijian Fish curry , yum!
The waitress (I think her name was Neeve?) was super lovely and attentive, and gave lots of good recommendations.
I love how this place have delicious food but retains a casual relaxed service style.
Thanks will be back for more delicious food and wine! Definitely going to try some cocktails next time!"
chrissi roper
"We had a wonderful experience at Blue Kanu. Every dish we ordered was delicious. The service was exceptional, and the staffs' knowledge of the dishes was informative and helpful when we were deciding what to eat. We ordered 7 small dishes and 1 large to share. The service was quick. The Pacific fusion concept with the food made their twist on Pacific dishes delightfully and surprisingly good. A fresh take on Pacific food that everyone should experience. My favourites were the Fijian Market Fish Kokoda and the Rakiura Salmon Tataki Waffle Cone."
Warren Retzlaff
"Lovely staff, nice vibe in the restaurant, but food a little disappointing. Fry bread came with a delicious butter but was a bit flatter and less fluffy than expected. We also had tempura aubergine, which was nice but a little lacking in flavour, and the tuna poke nachos which were somewhat overwhelmed with the sauce, which was mostly salty. Good food but not great."
Catherine Hooper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a unique fusion style blending Pacifica and Asian culinary influences, creating new cultural soul food.
Yes, Blue Kanu is accommodating to vegans and can suggest suitable dishes or veganize options.
Reservations are recommended, especially for groups of more than two people.
It's a four-course selection of the chef's favorite dishes, ideal for groups.
Popular choices include Slow Braised Pork Ribs, Tuna Poke Nachos, and Lamb Jungle Curry.
Yes, the Korean Fried Chicken is noted as a dish that children also love.
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One of the funkiest and tastiest eateries in QTown, Blue Kanu takes the best of Polynesian and Asian cuisine to create an epic fusion known as 'Polynasian'. This is another one of those places where if you let the waitstaff know you are vegan, they will come through with the goods and suggest which dishes are suitable/can be veganised for you. If you are coming as a group of more than two people, make a reservation and let them know in advance you are vegan and want to try the 'Trust the Wok' - a selection of four courses of the chef's faves.
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Hosting a truly original blend of Pacific and Asian (a style they refer to as ‘Polynasian’) food and cultural atmosphere, Blue Kanu is one of the most unique restaurants in the country and a must-try when visiting Queenstown. Adopting a tapas-style approach to their fascinating cultural-fusion creations, the vibrant and instantly inviting establishment looks to combine the versatility of Asian cuisine with the warmth of Pacific hospitality to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience for those who walk through its doors.
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The Blue Kanu is the brainchild of Karen Hattaway, an adopted Maori woman who, while in search of her identity, decided to amalgamate all aspects of said identity into one glorious contemporary ‘Polynasian’ restaurant. Fitted with bird cages, tiki roofs, butterflies, chopstick cutlery and bright fluoro Hawaiian shirt-wearing waiters, the place is a personification a very eccentric, very interesting and very cool woman. Don’t dare come to Queenstown and not try their traditional Maori kumara bread with avocado oil side.
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Mixing both Pacifica and Asian style, together with blending the two cultures aims to create a style and feel that we call “Polynasia”. The combination of Asian cuisine is recognised as healthy, fresh and exotic, encompassing Pacific influence, along with ancient spices, helping to create the new cultural soul food not seen in this region before. Our guests are encouraged to come and dine Polynasia tapa style plates at the bar or in the restaurant and soak up the art, culture and friendliness of the Pacific.
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Blue Kanu is one of the most exclusive seafood restaurants in Queenstown, and although the price tag is quite high, we believe it is worth checking out, because the experience is definitely worth it. Blue Kanu has a very interesting choice of cuisine, a sort of fusion one, that combines Asian and Pacific cuisine to create a style that they call “Polynasia”. The owners says that they are trying to create a new type of soul food that has not been seen in the region before.
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After a long day of adventurous activities, get freshened up and have a scrumptious dinner at Blue Kanu on Church Street. This Pacifica n and Asian-style " Polynasia" restaurant provides a unique opportunity to experience modern New Zealand cuisine with its exquisite offerings. Blue Kanu's unique interior decor of cool-toned exotic patterns with tropical colours decor creates an unforgettable dinner experience for customers.
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They’ve hit the nail on the head with scrumptious Pacifica and Asian style sharing plates and incredible cocktails. The space evokes the tropical holiday vibes, and the trust the chef option allows for total relaxation and a seriously enjoyable night. Dishes like their Kung Pao Roast Duck Nachos with avocado, whipped goat’s cheese mango and peanut sauce will have you wondering where Blue Kanu has been all your life.
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For a taste of contemporary local fare, head to one of WT Trip Leader Jon Imhoof’s favorite restaurants, Blue Kanu. The eatery serves shared plates of Asian-leaning Polynesian dishes, which they refer to as “Polynasia.” The entrées are familiar favorites with unique flavor profiles, like a coconut- and caramel-braised pork belly with ginger and chili oil, and a lamb curry with kumara, a New Zealand sweet potato.
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Blue Kanu is by far one of the best Queenstown restaurants I have been to and is one of my very favourite. The service at Blue Kanu is excellent with the bar staff and the maitre d’ ensuring a warm welcome in New Zealand’s native language, Te Reo. The best cocktails in Queenstown come from Blue Kanu, so if you’re wanting to start your night off a little fancy, book yourself a table and enjoy a lavish night out.
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Mixing both Pacifica and Asian style, together with blending the two cultures aims to create a style and feel that Blue Kanu call “Polynasia”. The combination of Asian cuisine is recognised as healthy, fresh and exotic, encompassing Pacific influence, along with ancient spices, helping to create the new cultural soul food not seen in this region before. With oceans of aroha……..we bring to you BLUE KANU.
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A long-time Absoloot staff favourite, Blue Kanu blends Pacifica and Asian flavours to create a unique style they call “Polynasia.” Expect a fusion of fresh, healthy, and exotic cuisine, enriched with Pacific influences and ancient spices. With an unforgettable atmosphere, stunning decor, and knowledgeable staff, this is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Website:www.bluekanu.co.nz
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Now you can't visit New Zealand with experiencing a Polynesian inspired dish. Blue Kanu has an amazing set up with Polynesian arts and cultures scattered throughout. Their meals are unique, combining both Asian and Polynesian flavours in a concoction they like to call "Polynasia." There is a $59 & $79 Banquet Menu, but if you are on a budget you can pick up a meal for around $27 to $39.
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One of the most loved places to eat in Queenstown, Blue Kanu blends Polynesian and Asian cultures together to create their own ‘Polynasia’ cuisine that’s healthy, fresh, and exotic with ancient spices. Some of the favourites on the menu are the Fijian market fish Kokoda and the golden shrimp. If you’re not a seafood fan, then the ribs, jungle curry and the duck nachos are just for you.
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Blue Kanu combines stunning lake views with a delicious Asian fusion menu, creating an unforgettable dining experience. This restaurant is a celebration of 'Polynasia', a blend of Pacifica and Asian cultures, reflected both in its eclectic decor and its diverse menu. From the pulled duck nachos to the salmon poke, each dish is crafted with care, offering a taste of the exotic.
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Squeeze past the bongo drums at the door and under hanging lanterns into the lively atmosphere of this Tiki-themed Hula restaurant. The food, like the décor, is a modern mix of Asian flavours and Polynesian ingredients. It’s a style the menu calls “Polynasian” and packs serious punch for the price point (around $35 for generously sized mains, designed to share).
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With modern and ancient Asian inspired recipes infused with Polynesian influences, you have to taste the goodness to believe it. Our guests are encouraged to come and dine Polynasia tapas style plates at the bar or in the restaurant and soak up the art, culture and friendliness of the Pacific. Our Hula hut style bar is ready to make you the perfect cocktail.
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Blue Kanu fuses the vibrant flavours of the Pacific Islands and Asia in a lively, eclectic setting. Known for its creative cocktails and share plates, this restaurant is perfect for those looking to embark on a culinary adventure in a fun and colourful environment. Tip: Located in Central Queenstown, be sure to allow extra time for parking.
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Blue Kanu has a beautiful interior, from the bright blue artwork to the cosy booth seating and intimate ambience; this is the ultimate date spot and a great place for dinner with friends. The combination of art, culture and cuisine is breathtaking. The menu is a vibrant collision of Pacifica and Asian-style fare, coined Polynesia.
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Enter a Pacific-themed paradise and get those taste buds ready for a few Asian/Pacific fusion delights. With seafood and epic salads, lamb curry, pork buns and market fish dishes, the Blue Kanu is the place to go for something special. It is not your usual dining experience with many pieces of Pacific art and tiki statues.
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I’m starting this best restaurants in Queenstown list with my personal favorite and a place I highly recommend you try!. Blue Kanu is a very unique restaurant serving a mix of Polynesian and Asian cuisine, what they call “Polynesia”. The dishes are well thought out and so tasty I eat here all the time!
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Blue Kanu is a restaurant where I take all my friends and family who come to visit. When people visit Queenstown I want them to taste something unique and Blue Kanu, in my opinion, is the most unique restaurant in Queenstown. Blue Kanu specializes in Polynesian/Asian food with lots of seafood.
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Blue Kanu – Mixing Polynesian and Asian style food to create ‘Polynasian’ cuisine, you’re sure to try something new here. With a warm, island feel as soon as you walk through the door, try a variety of tapas perfect for sharing. Be sure to also try a cocktail or two with your delicious meal!.
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Blue Kanu caters to several diets with zesty Asian cuisine and an upscale feel. Vegan-friendly favourites include papaya salad and Thai green curry, shitake mushroom and smoked tofu roll, and kung pao jackfruit nachos. If you feel like going all out, opt for the ‘Trust the Wok’ set menu.
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When you want to combine great food with good times, Blue Kanu is the place to take your party. Blending Pasifika and Asian flavours to create their own unique style of cooking, which they like to call “Polynasia”, Blue Kanu serves up tasty tropical fun, no matter how cold it is outside.
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This restaurant is truly a rare gem, as it combines the flavors of Pacific Islander and Asian cuisines. All their gluten free items, vegetarian, and vegan items are marked. Some of my favorites were the shitake mushroom and smoked tofu roll, as well as their kung pao jackfruit nachos.
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Also top of the pops is Blue Kanu (16 Church Street) which is usually heaving every night of the week. This is our pick for the best Queenstown restaurant, serving up rather unique cuisine which is a fusion of Pacifica and Asian fare that they call “Polynasia”. Absolutely exquisite!.
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Make sure to check out some of the romantic restaurants in Queenstown, Nest at Kamana being our favourite for a special night out, or Blue Kanu for a casual date night. Add on a drink at Little Blackwood (try the Japanese Garden during happy hour) for a great, romantic night out.
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If you’re looking for one of the best spots to dine out in Queenstown, look no further than Blue Kanu. If you know anyone that's visited here before you’ll hear them rave about the experience. A mix of Pacifica and Asian style food this menu is sure to set your soul on fire.
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Blue Kanu is another local favourite located in Queenstown centre. The chefs infuse Pacifica and Asian cuisine to create exquisite cross-cultural flavours. After your meal, take a seat at the colourful hula hut bar and enjoy vibrant and refreshing cocktails Blue Kanu style.
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Blue Kanu - Offering what they refer to as “Polynasian” cuisine (Pacific Asian fusion) in a fun, ornately decorated space, Blue Kanu is often considered the best restaurant in Queenstown. Their food is fresh, delicious and highlights flavors you likely haven’t had before.
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Bluekanu is a restaurant featuring a fusion of Pacifica and Asian style cuisines that they dub "Polynasia". It's fresh, healthy and makes use of ancient spices for a unique twist. Enjoy beer, wine, or a fruity cocktail like a lychee martini or Singapore sling.
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The Blue Kanu is a fusion of Asian and Pacifica style cuisines in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The dishes may be a little different but the food is absolutely delicious. It’s the perfect place to try something new and enjoy a unique food experience.
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If you’re looking for craft cocktails and an eclectic vibe then Blue Kanu is a great Queenstown bar to start your evening. They make one of the best Espresso Martini’s I’ve ever had. Blue Kanu gets my vote for best cocktail bar in Queenstown NZ.
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On the Queenstown price range, Blue Kanu is a mid-range restaurant. It’s best known for serving Pacific and Asian fusion (“Polynasia”) dishes. This restaurant has a fun, trendy vibe which goes along with its Asian cuisine-inspired menu items.
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Blue Kanu – this spot is a casual and fun restaurant and bar. With Pacific fare, great cocktails, oysters, and champagne, you’re spoilt for choice. The decor and atmosphere are awesome – more Pacific flair, low-lit, and a fun bar.
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Experience Asian fusion at Blue Kanu, combining Asian and Pasifika-style cooking in a fun and lively setting. Enjoy fresh, vibrant flavours, beautiful presentation, and cocktails in the heart of Queenstown. Open for dinner only.
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Some of my favourites include Jervois Steakhouse, Tanoshi (Japanese), Madam Woo (Malaysian), Blue Kanu (Polynesian), Margo’s (Mexican), The Cow (pizza & pasta), Winnie’s (Pizza) and, of course, the famous Fergburger.
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International Asian Vegan Tapas Restaurants Bars Late Night Bars Live Music Nightlife. The Blue Kanu blends Pacifica and Asian cultures together to create a style the restaurant calls 'Polynasia'................
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Their menu has some Hawaiian words and mainly serves Hawaiian fusion food. For example, the main dishes are Big Kahuna, which means big waves. (And their tagline is FLAVOURS THAT FLOAT YOUR BOAT!)
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Blending Asian and Pacific cultures housed within a Hula inspired bar, Blue Kanu is creative and fun with a menu full of fresh, colourful ingredients, aromatic spices and a whole lotta soul!
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Blue Kanu – not a massive range of plant based options but the food is absolutely delicious. It’s very unique as they mix both Pacifica and Asian style, together.
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This restaurant offers a range of seafood, pacific and asian style meals for those that miss a taste of the ocean in this mountain town.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit