New Zealand Pizza Chains: A Local’s Honest Guide
Are you trying to navigate the landscape of New Zealand pizza chains and feeling a little lost? A few months ago, my family was on holiday in Bali, and we ordered McDonald’s out of sheer curiosity. It was a revelation. The menu, the sauces, the taste—it was completely different from what we get back home.
That experience got me thinking. If a global giant like McDonald’s changes that much between countries, then visitors to New Zealand probably have no idea what to expect from our most popular pizza places. The names might be familiar, but the experience is uniquely Kiwi.
This isn’t a professional food critic’s review declaring the “best” pizza. Instead, this is an honest guide from a local family that has eaten a lot of pizza here. We’ll break down the major New Zealand pizza chains, comparing them on taste, price, and—most importantly—size, so you know exactly what you’re ordering.
The Kiwi Pizza Scene: More Than Just a Meal
Pizza in New Zealand isn’t just a food; it’s a cultural staple. It’s what you get for Friday night dinner, kids’ birthday parties, and flat-warming celebrations. The industry here is massive and constantly evolving.
- According to a 2023 industry report, the Pizza Restaurant market in New Zealand has a staggering size of $653.8 million. This shows just how much Kiwis are willing to spend on their favorite comfort food.
- Furthermore, the convenience of getting that food has exploded. The revenue for digital food delivery in New Zealand is projected to grow by over 50% between 2023 and 2027, making it easier than ever to get a hot pizza delivered to your door.
This competitive market means each of the major New Zealand pizza chains has to fight for its own niche, offering something unique to customers like you.
(Note: Prices listed are approximate and can vary based on location and promotions. Sizes are based on the standard “Large” or equivalent offering.)
The Budget Champions: Fast, Easy, and Affordable
These are the go-to takeaway options when you need a reliable, fast, and budget-friendly dinner. They are everywhere and always have deals running.
Domino’s Pizza: The King of Deals
Domino’s is the most widespread and recognizable pizza chain in the country. It’s our go-to for kids’ parties or when we need to feed a group without breaking the bank.
The Vibe:
The focus is 100% on efficiency. Stores are designed for quick pickup, and the experience is built around their app, which features a live pizza tracker and exclusive deals. It’s functional, fast, and no-frills.
The Pizza & Our Family Favorites:
It’s classic fast-food pizza. The crust is typically soft and doughy. While their simple Cheese Pizza is a reliable hit, our family’s go-to orders are the Garlic Prawn on a crispy thin crust and the indulgent Garlic Cream Cheese pizza. They always satisfy that specific craving for easy, cheesy goodness.
Size & Price:
A standard Large pizza is about 11 inches. While menu prices range from $7 to 20, nobody pays the full menu price. There all value is in their constant promotions, where you can often get a pizza for as little as $5-8.
Best For: Students, large families on a budget, and anyone needing a super-fast dinner.
Our Local Pro-Tip: Never order from the standard menu. Always use the Domino’s app and check the “Deals” section first. You’ll often find a coupon that cuts your cost in half.
Pizza Hut: The Crust Master
Pizza Hut is very similar to Domino’s in price and style, but for many Kiwis, the decision between the two comes down to one thing: the crust.
The Vibe:
Similar to Domino’s, the focus is on takeaway and delivery. The branding feels a bit more classic and less tech-focused. It’s a reliable and familiar experience for anyone who grew up with the brand.
The Pizza & Our Family Favorites:
The pizza is reliable, but the real star is the dough. They are famous for their delicious Stuffed Crust, which adds a ring of melted cheese to every bite. Our personal favorites are the Americano on a Cheese Stuffed Crust and the classic Margherita, which is surprisingly amazing on their unique San Francisco Sourdough base.
Size & Price:
A standard Large is also around 11 inches. A pizza will typically cost between $15 and $25, but like Domino’s, they have frequent deals that make it much more affordable.
Best For: Families, crust lovers, and those looking for a nostalgic pizza night.
Our Local Pro-Tip: Adding a specialty crust like the Cheese Stuffed Crust is absolutely worth the extra couple of dollars. It completely transforms the pizza.
The Mid-Range Contenders: Better Quality, Bolder Flavors
When you’re ready to move beyond the budget options and want higher-quality ingredients and more interesting flavors, these popular New Zealand pizza chains are your top choices.
Hell Pizza: The Kiwi Rebel with Quality Toppings
Hell Pizza is a true New Zealand icon. Founded in Wellington, it has built a massive cult following with its cheeky devil-themed marketing, but it backs it up with a serious commitment to quality.
The Vibe:
The experience is part of the fun. Stores are decked out in gothic, hellish decor, and the menu items have names like “Lust,” “Wrath,” and “Pandemonium.” It’s playful, rebellious, and distinctly Kiwi.
The Pizza & Our Family Favorites:
Hell Pizza prides itself on using high-quality, often free-range ingredients, and you can taste the difference. Toppings are famously abundant. Our family always comes back to two favorites: the Buffalo pizza(Italian buffalo mozzarella, tangy tomato base and finished with basil pesto on a thin stretched base) and the Greed pizza(Triple smoked champagne ham, double pineapple & double cheese).
Size & Price:
Their standard “Double” size is about 12 inches—slightly larger than the budget chains. Expect to pay between $23 and $27 for one of their gourmet pizzas.
Best For: A weekend treat, foodies who value ingredient quality, and anyone looking for amazing vegetarian and vegan options.
Our Local Pro-Tip: Keep an eye out for their promotions. The Friday the 13th deals are legendary, and they often run special kids’ pizza promotions during school holidays that are great value.
Pizza Club: The Fusion Favorite
Pizza Club has become incredibly popular for its unique, Indian-inspired fusion pizzas. It’s the perfect choice when you want a pizza that breaks all the traditional rules.
The Vibe:
The stores are modern, bright, clean, and geared towards quick takeaway service. The focus isn’t on a theme but on showcasing their massive, colorful menu of options.
The Pizza & Our Family Favorites:
Their famous Butter Chicken pizza is the absolute must-try for our family. It’s creamy, savory, and surprisingly delicious on a pizza base. The flavors are rich, the toppings are plentiful, and it’s a completely unique experience among all New Zealand pizza chains.
Size & Price:
A large pizza is around 13-14 inches, making it noticeably bigger than Domino’s or Hell Pizza. A specialty pizza costs between $18 and $26, but their multi-buy combo deals offer fantastic value.
Best For: Adventurous eaters, fans of Indian food, and groups looking for a flavorful, affordable feed.
Our Local Pro-Tip: Pizza Club’s availability can be limited in some cities (like Christchurch), so check their website for a location near you before you get your heart set on it.
The Authentic American Experience
There’s one chain that stands in a category all its own, focusing on authenticity, quality, and massive size above all else.
Sal’s Authentic New York Pizza: The Gentle Giant
You go to Sal’s for one reason: to get a genuine, New York-style pizza experience. The price tag might seem shocking at first glance, but it’s all about the size and authenticity.
The Vibe:
Walking into Sal’s feels like stepping into a pizzeria in Brooklyn. The decor is simple, with checkered floors, sports memorabilia, and the incredible smell of real pizza. It’s authentic, not theatrical.
The Pizza & Our Family Favorites:
It’s less about creative toppings and more about perfecting the classic. The crust is thin, crispy, and foldable. My kids love the simple Nonna’s Cheese pizza, while the Buffalo Chicken is another family favorite. They import key ingredients like their pepperoni and cheese from the USA to get the taste just right.
Size & Price:
This is the most important part. A Sal’s pizza is a whopping 18 inches. The price for a full pie is $40 – 55, which seems high until you do the math. A single slice is $7-8.
Best For: Pizza purists, sharing with a large group, or grabbing a quick, satisfying lunch by the slice.
Our Local Pro-Tip: Don’t be afraid to fold your slice in half lengthwise, New York style. It’s the easiest way to handle its massive size!
Pizza Math: Why Size Matters More Than Price
Comparing a $5 Domino’s pizza to a $50 Sal’s pizza seems simple, but it’s misleading. The real value is in the surface area.
An 11-inch Domino’s pizza has an area of about 95 square inches.
An 18-inch Sal’s pizza has an area of about 254 square inches.
This means a single Sal’s pizza is over 2.5 times larger than a Domino’s pizza. When you factor that in, the price per bite becomes much more competitive, especially since one Sal’s pie can easily feed more people than two or three smaller pizzas.
| Chain | Typical Size (Large) | Surface Area (Approx.) | Price Range (Large) |
| Domino’s | ~11 inches | 95 sq. in. | $5 – $8 (with deals) |
| Pizza Hut | ~11 inches | 95 sq. in. | $15 – $25 |
| Hell Pizza | ~12 inches | 113 sq. in. | $23 – $27 |
| Pizza Club | ~13-14 inches | 132-153 sq. in. | $18 – $26 |
| Sal’s Pizza | 18 inches | 254 sq. in. | $40 – $55 (full pie) |
Beyond the Chains: Discovering Local Flavors
While this guide covers the big New Zealand pizza chains, sometimes the real magic is found in smaller, independent eateries. Exploring these spots is one of the best parts of travel.
Take our hometown of Christchurch, for example. As much as we love pizza, we often explore other local gems. If you’re after another Kiwi takeaway classic, you can’t go wrong with finding a local favorite for fish and chips in Christchurch. It’s a staple for a reason.
For a quick and incredibly tasty lunch while exploring the city centre, the souvlaki from Dimitris at Riverside Market is a must-try. And for a full sit-down meal, we’ve had amazing experiences with modern Malaysian food at Old Street in Christchurch and discovered a truly unique dining experience at Christchurch’s best-kept secret Afghan restaurant.
Looking beyond the big chains will always reward you with delicious and authentic experiences.
Beyond the Chains: Don’t Forget the Locals
While this guide covers the big players, some of the best pizza in New Zealand comes from small, independent pizzerias. Look for places with wood-fired ovens or those specializing in sourdough bases. Exploring these local gems is part of the fun of travel! For more official dining guides, you can always check the Tourism New Zealand website.
And if you’re planning a trip around the country to sample all this food, don’t forget to map out your stops with our guide to [planning the ultimate Kiwi road trip]([insert your internal blog post URL here]).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is Sal’s pizza so much more expensive than other chains?
The main reason is its massive 18-inch size—it’s over double the size of a standard large from other chains. They also import key ingredients from the USA for an authentic taste, which adds to the cost.
2. Which of the New Zealand pizza chains offers the best value for money?
For sheer low cost, Domino’s promotions are unbeatable. However, if you consider the price-per-bite based on size, Pizza Club and Sal’s offer surprisingly good value, as their larger pizzas can feed more people.
3. What’s the main difference between Hell Pizza and the budget chains?
The biggest difference is ingredient quality. Hell Pizza advertises the use of free-range products and high-quality toppings, and you can taste the difference. Their menu is also far more creative.
4. Can I buy pizza by the slice in New Zealand?
It’s not common at most chains, but Sal’s specializes in it. It’s their signature offering and a perfect way to have an authentic, affordable lunch.
Final Thoughts from a Local
Choosing from the many New Zealand pizza chains really depends on your priorities. Are you feeding a crowd on a budget? Grab a deal from Domino’s. Craving something truly authentic and massive? Sal’s is your place. Want quality toppings or unique flavors? Hell Pizza and Pizza Club have you covered.
Hopefully, this local’s guide helps you find the perfect slice for your night
