Eco-esti
Eco-Esti is your go-to destination for insightful reviews on the latest climate change books, documentaries, and the best plant-based dining experiences. Join me as we explore sustainable living, eco-conscious media, and plant-based gastronomy - all with a passion for protecting our planet.
Review: big Fig, Wanaka
Perched on Wanaka's stunning lakefront at 105 Ardmore Street, Big Fig delivers exactly what climate-conscious travellers hope to find: delicious, healthy food that happens to be environmentally friendly, served in one of New Zealand's most breathtaking settings. This vibrant cafe proves that sustainable dining and spectacular scenery make perfect companions.
Review: Yonder, Queenstown
Nestled on Church Street in the heart of Queenstown, Yonder brings a refreshing approach to cafe culture that perfectly matches the town's vibrant, international atmosphere. This charming establishment describes itself as "passionate providers of coffee, brunch, drinks & late night shenanigans," and their menu reflects influences from travels around the world—including some delightful plant-based options that cater to climate-conscious diners.
REview: Corner store, Dunedin
Located at the corner of Bath and Stuart Streets in Dunedin, The Corner Store Cafe embodies the kind of unpretentious, community-focused dining that makes sustainable eating feel natural and accessible. This neighborhood gem proves that plant-based options don't need elaborate presentations or exotic ingredients—sometimes the best vegan food comes from simple, well-executed comfort dishes made with care.
Review: September Vegan, Wellington
Hidden away in Wellington's vibrant food scene, September Vegan has quietly established itself as a destination for exceptional plant-based Asian cuisine.
REview: The Botanist, Wellington
Perched on Onepu Road with stunning views across Lyall Bay, The Botanist represents everything that's exciting about New Zealand's evolving plant-based dining scene. This innovative cafe and restaurant doesn't just serve vegan food—it creates genuine culinary experiences that happen to be entirely plant-based, proving that sustainable dining can be both delicious and sophisticated.
Review: Cafe Baku, Lake Taupo
Situated on Roberts Street in the heart of Taupo, Cafe Baku brings together bold flavors and warm hospitality in one of New Zealand's most stunning lakeside settings.
REview: Latitude 37, Mount Maunganui
Located on Maunganui Road in the heart of Mount Maunganui, Latitude 37 delivers what you'd expect from an award-winning restaurant: quality food, good service, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for the Bay of Plenty's coastal vibe.
Review: East, Auckland
East in Auckland’s CBD represents a refreshing evolution in plant-based dining that proves sustainable eating does not require sacrificing bold flavours or culinary sophistication.
Review: Gorilla Kitchen, Auckland
Gorilla Kitchen has established itself as more than just another vegan restaurant, it’s a custodian of tasty food that’s redefining plant-based dining in New Zealand’s largest city.
Air New Zealand Vegan options
Air New Zealand has become one of the most progressive airlines when it comes to sustainable dining, and their expanding menu deserves recognition from environmentally conscious travellers. With aviation accounting for 2-3% of global carbon emissions, every effort to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint matters - and dietary choices play a surprisingly significant role.
The South African Vegan Scene
I visited Cape Town, South Africa in 2023 and again in 2024 and wow the vegan scene in Cape Town and Stellenbosch has truly began to flourish. This reflects a growing awareness and demand for plant-based dining options. As a traveler, I've noticed a vibrant array of vegan eateries and initiatives that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.