Kirihimete ki Te PapaChristmas at Te Papa

The award-winning team at Te Papa Cafe is celebrating Kirihimete with a special themed menu this holiday season. Each week features a new dish and dessert on offer to try, including stuffed chicken with festive mash, turkey dumplings, a rum raisin Paris-Brest, and a mini Yule log. 

Week one: 1 to 7 December 

The Cranberry & Brie Turkey Pizza – $19.50 
A hand-crusted, stone-baked pizza base spread with a light, herb-infused tomato sauce and topped with shredded roast turkey, creamy brie, and a bright cranberry drizzle. Finished with a handful of fresh rockets and a flourish of extra virgin olive oil. 

Pistachio Raspberry Christmas Bell – $9  

Festive creation featuring soft pistachio joconde layered with a vibrant raspberry insert, encased in a silky pistachio mousse. Finished with a luxurious green velvet spray for a true Christmas sparkle. 

Week two: 8 to 14 December 

Turkey Dumplings with Peanut Slaw – $21 
Tender, spiced turkey dumplings, perfectly pan-seared and drizzled with a rich chilli oil. Served on a vibrant, crunchy peanut and kewpie-dressed slaw for a fusion of festive warmth. 

Mont Blanc Tart – $9  

Refined tart of buttery vanilla pastry, filled with blueberry compote and topped with light vanilla Chantilly. Crowned with delicate chestnut vermicelles in true Mont Blanc style. 

Week three: 15 to 21 December 

Honey-Glazed Ham with Black-Eyed Peas Salad – $21 
Succulent honey-glazed ham, carved to order. Served alongside a vibrant, zesty black-eyed pea salad with a hint of citrus and fresh herbs. A modern, flavour-forward take on a classic holiday lunch. 

Rum Raisin Paris-Brest – $9  

Festive twist on the classic, filled with rum-infused raisin mousseline, paired with milk chocolate rum crémeux, and finished with caramelised nuts for added crunch and warmth. 

Week four: 22 to 31 December 

Stuffed Chicken with Festive Mash – $25 
A juicy chicken breast, expertly stuffed with a blend of creamy spinach and salty feta. Roasted to perfection and served with a white wine sauce, buttery mash and a refreshing, citrus-dressed Christmas salad. 

Mini Yule Log – $9 

Petite celebration of chocolate featuring dark chocolate mousse layered with chocolate sponge and cherry compote, finished with a glossy chocolate mirror glaze for a perfect holiday indulgence. 

Te Papa Cafe Kirihimete ki Te Papa Specials, 2025. Photo by Caitlin Dorrington