Situated inside The Avenue Hotel in Whanganui, Glasshouse is a refined dining destination designed as a light-filled conservatory space that seamlessly connects indoor comfort with vibrant outdoor dining areas. Grounded in a quiet dedication to local culinary expression, the kitchen draws inspiration and ingredients from the surrounding river, coastline, and fertile regional pastures.
Helmed by an international brigade of culinary professionals—including award-winning competition chefs, French-trained pastry and culinary specialists, and experienced hospitality leaders—Glasshouse delivers creative New Zealand dining with global finesse. Complementing the kitchen's offerings, the beverage programme is anchored by national mixology talent and dedicated coffee specialists, creating a relaxed yet elevated gathering place for both locals and travelers.
Set within The Avenue Hotel along Victoria Avenue, Glasshouse has quickly established itself as one of Whanganui’s most captivating culinary arrivals. Centred on the evocative concept of an airy conservatory where the outdoors flows naturally within, the venue combines a sun-drenched central dining room with lively open-air garden spaces. It offers a sophisticated yet unpretentious environment tailored for everything from relaxed afternoon drinks to celebratory evening dinners.
At the core of Glasshouse is a tight-knit culinary brigade with an extraordinary breadth of global pedigree. The kitchen team unites talent with experience spanning Michelin Guide-listed venues in California, luxury destinations such as Marina Bay Sands and Burj Al Arab, and prestigious European hotel kitchens. Led by Executive Chef Matthew Tressider alongside international competition medalists, Red Seal-certified leadership, and qualified culinary specialists, the kitchen approaches dining with both precision and heartfelt hospitality.
Rather than locking into a rigid format, the kitchen embraces seasonality and the rich bounty of Aotearoa. Ingredients sourced from local waterways, regional coastlines, and nearby farms form the backbone of the menus. To celebrate the diverse backgrounds of the team—spanning French, Continental, Indian, East Asian, and modern Kiwi influences—the restaurant runs regular ‘Seasonal Specials’, giving individual chefs a platform to craft unique feature mains that evolve throughout the year.
Glasshouse's ambition extends well beyond the kitchen pass. The bar and beverage programme is anchored by Sandesh Thapa, reigning MONIN Cup New Zealand Mixology Champion, who brings world-class technique and creative twists to the cocktail list. Guests can also enjoy an elevated coffee programme guided by dedicated baristas, catering to morning diners and midday catch-ups alike.
Whether dropping by for daytime brunch on a sunny weekend, gathering around the table for an evening dinner, or relaxing in the courtyard with a bespoke drink, Glasshouse delivers a memorable encounter with contemporary New Zealand dining.