Pizza is a beloved food around the world, and New Zealand is no exception. The country boasts a vibrant pizza culture with a variety of franchises offering a range of styles and flavors. Here are some of the top pizza franchises in New Zealand, known for their popularity, unique offerings, and strong market presence:
1. Domino’s Pizza
Overview: Domino’s Pizza is one of the most well-known pizza franchises globally and has a strong presence in New Zealand. Known for its fast delivery service and extensive menu, Domino’s has been a favorite among pizza lovers.
Key Features:
- Wide Variety: Domino’s offers a wide range of pizzas, including traditional, gourmet, and specialty options. They cater to various dietary needs with gluten-free and vegan options.
- Technology-Driven: Domino’s is known for its innovative use of technology, including its online ordering system and delivery tracking.
- Promotions and Deals: The franchise frequently offers promotions, discounts, and meal deals, making it an attractive option for families and groups.
Popular Items:
- BBQ Meatlovers
- Pepperoni
- Hawaiian
- Vegan Avocado Veg
2. Pizza Hut
Overview: Pizza Hut, another global giant, has a significant footprint in New Zealand. Famous for its dine-in restaurants and delivery service, Pizza Hut has been serving Kiwis for decades.
Key Features:
- Dine-In and Delivery: Pizza Hut offers both dine-in and delivery options, providing flexibility for customers.
- Buffet Service: Some Pizza Hut locations offer a buffet service, which includes an all-you-can-eat pizza, salad, and dessert bar.
- Variety of Crusts: Customers can choose from different crust styles, including stuffed crust, thin and crispy, and traditional pan.
Popular Items:
- Super Supreme
- Meat Lovers
- Chicken Supreme
- Margherita
3. Hell Pizza
Overview: Hell Pizza is a New Zealand-based franchise that has gained a cult following for its edgy branding and high-quality ingredients. The franchise is known for its quirky names and unique flavor combinations.
Key Features:
- Innovative Menu: Hell Pizza offers a creative menu with pizzas named after the seven deadly sins and other dark themes.
- Quality Ingredients: They emphasize using fresh, high-quality ingredients, including free-range meats and organic vegetables.
- Community Involvement: Hell Pizza is actively involved in community initiatives and supports various charitable causes.
Popular Items:
- The Damned (BBQ and bourbon glazed chicken)
- Mayhem (Double smoked ham and pineapple)
- Mischief (Pepperoni and chorizo)
- Purgatory (Vegetarian option with a spicy kick)
4. Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza
Overview: Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza brings the taste of New York to New Zealand. Known for its large, foldable slices and authentic New York-style pizza, Sal’s has become a favorite among pizza enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Authentic New York Style: Sal’s focuses on providing an authentic New York pizza experience with large, thin-crust slices.
- Simple Menu: The menu is straightforward, focusing on a few key items done exceptionally well.
- Quality Ingredients: Sal’s imports key ingredients from New York, including the mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, to ensure authenticity.
Popular Items:
- Pepperoni Pizza
- Cheese Pizza
- Meat Lovers Pizza
- Garlic Knots
5. La Porchetta
Overview: La Porchetta is an Australian-Italian restaurant chain with several locations in New Zealand. Known for its extensive menu and family-friendly atmosphere, La Porchetta offers more than just pizza.
Key Features:
- Diverse Menu: In addition to pizza, La Porchetta serves a variety of Italian dishes, including pasta, risotto, and salads.
- Family-Friendly: The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere suitable for families and large groups.
- Customizable Pizzas: Customers can customize their pizzas with a variety of toppings and crust options.
Popular Items:
- Margherita
- Capricciosa
- Quattro Stagioni
- Vegetarian Pizza
6. Domino’s Pizza Enterprises (DPE)
Overview: Domino’s Pizza Enterprises (DPE) is the master franchise holder for Domino’s in New Zealand, as well as several other countries. This separate entity focuses on enhancing the Domino’s brand within the region.
Key Features:
- Localized Menus: DPE often tailors its menu to suit local tastes and preferences, ensuring relevance and appeal to New Zealand customers.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The franchise is committed to sustainability, including reducing food waste and using eco-friendly packaging.
- Innovative Products: DPE frequently introduces new and innovative products to keep the menu fresh and exciting.
Popular Items:
- Double Bacon Cheeseburger
- Garlic Chicken & Bacon Aioli
- Vegan Margarita
- Loaded Pepperoni
7. Blaze Pizza
Overview: Blaze Pizza is an emerging franchise in New Zealand known for its build-your-own pizza concept. Customers can choose from a variety of toppings to create their personalized pizza.
Key Features:
- Fast-Casual Concept: Blaze Pizza operates on a fast-casual model, allowing for quick service without compromising quality.
- Customization: The build-your-own model allows for extensive customization, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
- Artisan Ingredients: The franchise uses high-quality, artisan ingredients, including freshly made dough and premium toppings.
Popular Items:
- Build-Your-Own Pizzas
- Meat Eater
- Green Stripe (pesto drizzle over chicken, roasted red peppers, garlic, arugula, and mozzarella)
- Veg Out (mushrooms, zucchini, red onion, mozzarella, gorgonzola, and tomato sauce)
8. Domino’s Pizza New Zealand
Overview: Domino’s Pizza New Zealand is a localized branch of the global Domino’s brand. While closely related to Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, this branch focuses specifically on the New Zealand market.
Key Features:
- Local Flavors: Domino’s New Zealand often incorporates local flavors and ingredients to cater to New Zealand tastes.
- Community Engagement: The franchise is involved in various community initiatives and sponsorships within New Zealand.
- Technological Advancements: Continuously improving their online ordering and delivery systems for better customer service.
Popular Items:
- Kiwi BBQ Meatlovers
- Spicy Veg Trio
- Chicken, Bacon & Avocado
- Classic Pepperoni
9. Eagle Boys Pizza
Overview: Eagle Boys Pizza was a popular Australian pizza chain that expanded into New Zealand. Although it no longer operates in Australia, some New Zealand locations continue to serve their well-loved pizzas.
Key Features:
- Value for Money: Eagle Boys is known for offering good quality pizzas at competitive prices.
- Family-Friendly Options: The menu includes family meal deals and kid-friendly options.
- Classic Pizzas: Focus on traditional pizza flavors with a few unique options.
Popular Items:
- BBQ Meatlovers
- Hawaiian
- Supreme
- Vegetarian
10. The Pizza Library Co.
Overview: The Pizza Library Co. is a unique New Zealand pizza franchise known for its literary-themed decor and menu. Each pizza is named after a famous book or literary character.
Key Features:
- Themed Environment: The restaurant decor and menu are inspired by books and literature, creating a unique dining experience.
- Creative Menu: Pizzas are creatively named and designed, often featuring unique and gourmet ingredients.
- Community Focus: The franchise supports local authors and literary events, fostering a sense of community.
Popular Items:
- The Great Gatsby (BBQ chicken, bacon, red onion, and BBQ sauce)
- Huckleberry Finn (pepperoni, chorizo, capsicum, and olives)
- The Secret Garden (vegetarian with sundried tomatoes, feta, and spinach)
- The Hobbit (lamb, mint, and feta)
Conclusion
New Zealand’s pizza scene is vibrant and diverse, with numerous franchises catering to different tastes and preferences. From the globally recognized giants like Domino’s and Pizza Hut to the uniquely Kiwi brands like Hell Pizza and The Pizza Library Co., there is something for every pizza lover in the country. Each franchise brings its own unique twist to the beloved dish, ensuring that the pizza culture in New Zealand remains dynamic and ever-evolving. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita, a meaty BBQ, or a creative gourmet option, these top pizza franchises have something to offer.
