At Spice Village, every dish we serve, every story we share, and every smile we offer is part of a journey that started long before we opened our doors in Hanmer Springs. This is the story of how a dream became a restaurant, and how we’ve built a place that feels like home for both locals and visitors alike.

1. The Spark of an Idea
The journey to Spice Village began long before we set foot in Hanmer Springs. It was a simple idea, sparked by our love for Indian food and the belief that authentic, family-run restaurants should have a place in New Zealand. We wanted to create a space where people could come for more than just a meal — we wanted to bring the flavours of India to the community, with a touch of Kiwi warmth.

2. A Vision for Something Different
When we decided to open Spice Village, we knew we didn’t just want to create another Indian restaurant — we wanted to create an experience. We wanted every guest to feel like they were walking into our home. From the decor to the menu, we infused every corner of Spice Village with the warmth, culture, and tradition of India, all while keeping things casual and welcoming for the Kiwi spirit.

3. The Road to Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs was the perfect place for us. With its stunning natural beauty, bustling tourism, and tight-knit community, it felt like the ideal spot to open a family-run restaurant. As we settled into the town and got to know the locals, it quickly became clear that Spice Village was more than just a restaurant to us — it was a place where people could come together, connect over a shared love for food, and make lasting memories.

4. Creating the Menu
Our menu is the heart and soul of Spice Village — it’s where our story comes to life. Growing up in Delhi, I was surrounded by the vibrant, diverse flavours of Indian cuisine, and that deep love for food has shaped everything we do. We’ve taken cherished family recipes and infused them with our own creative touches, ensuring each dish stays true to its authentic roots. We wanted to offer food that’s made the way it should be, no matter where you’re from. The goal has always been to blend bold, lively flavours with the warmth and comfort of sharing a meal with those you care about.

5. From Opening Night to Today
Opening night was a whirlwind. We were nervous, excited, and had no idea what to expect. But the love and support from our community — both locals and visitors — blew us away. Since then, Spice Village has grown into a beloved spot in Hanmer Springs, and every day feels like a celebration of the journey we’ve been on. From serving up hot plates of curry to sharing stories with guests, we’ve built something we’re incredibly proud of.

6. Looking to the Future
As we look ahead, we’re focused on continuing to grow, staying true to our roots, and evolving with the needs of our community. We’re committed to providing the best food, the warmest hospitality, and an experience that makes everyone feel like part of our extended family. And, of course, we’re always on the lookout for new ways to innovate and bring you exciting flavours.

Thanks for Being Part of Our Journey
The Spice Village story wouldn’t be the same without you. Whether you’ve been with us since day one or are just discovering us for the first time, we’re grateful for your support. It’s your love for good food and good company that makes Spice Village what it is today.

Thanks for being a part of this incredible journey — we look forward to serving you for many more years to come!