This is Captain Kerrs Fish & Chips, a traditional fish and chip shop on New Zealand’s Hibiscus Coast.
Conveniently positioned beside the pedestrian crossing leading directly to the beach, the shop carried the quaint atmosphere of a seaside fish and chip shop in the UK, with a casual, unfussy setting suited to takeaway dining by the waterfront.
Battered Hoki ($6.00 each)
The hoki arrived coated in a crisp battered exterior with a relatively substantial thickness that avoided becoming heavy or doughy. Despite the thickness of the batter, the fish retained its moisture and flaked apart cleanly. The hoki itself carried a mild, approachable flavour without excessive oiliness or marine intensity. Portioning felt generous relative to pricing, particularly compared to equivalent fish and chip offerings in Sydney.
Kūmara Chips ($6.00)
The kūmara chips held their crispness well, with firmer edges and a drier exterior than the standard potato chips. The natural sweetness of the kūmara came through clearly without becoming overly caramelised, and the texture remained comparatively stable despite takeaway wrapping.
Chips ($3.00 per scoop; 2 scoops; $1.50 each for dipping sauces)
The potato chips were softer and somewhat soggy from being wrapped, lacking the structural crispness present in the kūmara chips. Internally they remained fluffy, though the exterior texture softened quickly from retained steam. Functionally adequate alongside the fish, though otherwise fairly unremarkable in flavour and texture.
Overall, a relaxed seaside fish and chip shop delivering solid battered fish and notably stronger kūmara chips than standard potato chips, with generous portions and classic beachside takeaway appeal.
Captain Kerrs Fish & Chips is located at 278 Hibiscus Coast Highway, Orewa 0931, New Zealand.