On-demand distribution platform, DoorDash New Zealand has released its annual Online Ordering Trends Report*, shedding light on New Zealand ordering and dining habits to help restaurateurs better understand their consumers.
The 2024 Trends Report, based on consumer and DoorDash data, shows that despite the current economic climate, consumers are increasingly turning to DoorDash to fulfill their dining needs. DoorDash’s extensive restaurant selection reflects changing consumer preferences and enables new restaurant discovery, with 35% of DoorDash users in New Zealand ordering from a new restaurant between Q4 2023 and Q1 2024.
“Kiwis have a strong preference for convenience and local flavours, and we’re seeing changing habits that show they’re feeling more connected to their favourite restaurants,” said Bradley Thomas, DoorDash’s general manager for New Zealand. “Our latest data shows that whether it’s satisfying late-night hunger or trying a new restaurant, DoorDash is at the heart of these dining experiences, helping to bridge the gap between consumers and local eateries.”
Continued growth in online orders
Despite the recent economic downturn, people are still choosing to spend money on takeout, with over half of consumers (65%) ordering takeout at the same or higher price than last year.
- Creatures of Habit: While many New Zealanders have a strong attachment to traditional comfort foods like burgers and chips, some prefer more diverse and international options. DoorDash NZ customers’ most preferred dishes include chicken dishes, chips, burgers, naan and noodle dishes.
- Everyday food delivery: With 36% of consumers reporting making repeat delivery orders at least once a week, this presents an opportunity for restaurants to continue nurturing relationships with customers.
Changing habits
As New Zealanders return to the office and professionals’ daily routines change, there’s been a visible impact on Kiwis’ ordering habits.
- Late-night snacks: Kiwis are craving late-night snacks, with orders between 12am and 5am seeing a staggering 1,261% growth on DoorDash from 2022 to 2023.
- Breakfast order A similar increase was seen, with orders between 5am and 11am increasing by 644%.
Culinary exploration
New Zealanders are keen to support local businesses and explore new dining experiences, with 35% of DoorDash users finding local restaurants through the app. There are many factors that come into play when choosing a new restaurant.
- Menu prices: 53% of New Zealanders closely monitor menu prices when searching for their next culinary adventure.
- Review: 49% of New Zealanders rely on trusted friends and family to help them choose a restaurant.
- Food photography: 39% of Gen Z and 35% of Millennials say food photos are the reason they try a new restaurant.
Exploring differences in generational order
Gen Z and Baby Boomers have similar eating habits, both opting to eat straight from takeaway containers, while Gen X and Millennials tend to use their own dishes and utensils. Additionally, 23% of Gen Z in New Zealand often enjoy their DoorDash meals from the comfort of their bed.
*Methodology
The 2024 Restaurant Trends Report was commissioned by DoorDash and produced by Dynata. The survey was conducted March 12-21 and involved 1,007 respondents representing a range of ages, occupations and income levels. The average age of participants was 42 years old, with a demographic breakdown of 46% male and 54% female, and an average household income of $104,100. All respondents were responsible for purchasing meals for themselves or their family.
