Mogu Japanese Food

21/10/2026

20/10/2026

We had a bit of an unexpected incident this morning on our way to set up. While turning a corner along Somme Parade, our glass display cabinet slipped out of the food trailer and completely shattered on the roadside.

Thankfully, no one was hurt and no other vehicles were involved.
Due to the accident, we will be closed today. As food safety and hygiene are always our absolute top priority, we need to do a complete deep clean and inspection of the trailer to ensure every single container, utensil, and work surface is 100% free of any micro glass dust before we serve you again. We are truly sorry for any inconvenience this may cause to those planning to visit us today!

While it was quite a shock, our hearts are completely full of gratitude for the incredible warmth of this community. A massive thank you to:

•The wonderful Police officer who immediately stopped to direct traffic and help us clear the lane.
•The kind legend from Earthworks who pulled over without hesitation to lend a hand.
•The amazing road crew from the nearby site and the team from Downer who brought their gear, trucks, and blowers to help sweep every bit of debris off the road and grass.

Within minutes, what felt like a disaster turned into the purest display of the Kiwi spirit. Seeing neighbors and frontline workers step in without a second thought reminded us why we love Whanganui so much.

Thank you all for being so kind and looking out for us. Moments like this inspire us to work even harder, make great food, and give back all the love and support this community has shown us.

We will keep you updated once we are sparkling clean, restocked, and ready to welcome you back. Stay safe, and have a wonderful day! ❤️

14/10/2026

Hey everyone, due to weather conditions and family reasons, we won’t be opening today.
​We sincerely apologise for missing you today, but we will be BACK TOMORROW (Friday, 16th Oct) as usual!
​Can’t wait to see you all tomorrow for lunch. Thank you for your understanding! 🌧️➡️☀️🍱

04/08/2026

Reopening TOMORROW! 🚚✨

​We were all set to fire up the trailer today, but we’re putting the very last touches on some equipment upgrades behind the scenes to make sure everything is 100% perfect for you.

​So we’re extending our break by just ONE more day and will be back TOMORROW (Thursday, Aug 6th) for lunch!

​Thank you all so much for your patience over the last 2 weeks. We’ve missed you terribly and can’t wait to serve you again!

​See you tomorrow for lunch! ❤️

18/07/2026

Winter Break Notice: 19 July – 4 August ❄️
​Hey foodies! Please note that Mogu will be taking a brief winter pause from our weekday city service starting Sunday, 19 July, and returning on Wednesday, 5 August.

​We are using this time to celebrate a couple of major milestones—our daughter turning 5 and starting primary school!—as well as giving our trusty food truck some essential maintenance and hardware upgrades.

​🎪 Don't worry, Saturdays are still on! We will still be operating at the River Market EVERY Saturday as usual.🌊🚚

​Thank you so much for your understanding and support, and we apologize for any inconvenience caused. Can't wait to see you back in town soon!❤️

09/07/2026

🔴 WE ARE CLOSED TODAY for Matariki.

​While we love celebrating with you, we need a moment to catch our breath! ❤️To ensure we're fully restocked, prepped, and give our amazing team a well-deserved short rest, we are closing for the Matariki public holiday today.

​It's a frosty one out there, so please stay safe, warm, and cozy! ☕️🧣

​We can't wait to see you all on Saturday when we return to the River Market!

​Have a wonderful, peaceful Matariki.

​Mānawatia a Matariki! ✨

07/07/2026

Whanganui pride! 🥹🇳🇿🇯🇵
​We are deeply honored to have been officially invited by the Japanese Embassy in NZ to cater their upcoming film festivals! 🎖️ After trying our food in March, they requested us personally.
​
While we had to regretfully decline this time to look after our two school-aged kiddos, having our family’s 130-year heritage recipes recognized by the government as a true representation of Japanese culture is the ultimate win for our little Whanganui kitchen! 🌸🌊

Come taste what the Embassy was raving about this at 24 Maria Place and the Whanganui River Markets ! 🍱 And we will be at Tupoho Puanga Night Market on Thursday 9 July 2026 as well. ⭐

Note: We cook everything fresh (usually a 5-10 min wait depending on your order), Me and Leo are at lightning speed to keep things moving as fast as possible! 😂⚡ So you can grab embassy-certified quality food without the crazy wait. Perfect for a delicious lunch break!

​📍 24 Maria Place, Whanganui
Mogu Japanese Food

25/06/2026

We're sorry, we won't be open for lunch in town today due to the weather and staff illness😔. Please stay safe, warm, and dry out there! We look forward to seeing you at the River Market tomorrow.❤️

12/06/2026

SATURDAY ONLY! NEW THIS WEEKEND! 🌟
​Get ready to get loaded! 🍟 Introducing two new reasons to visit Whanganui River Markets :

​1️⃣ Karaage Loaded Fries: Karaage Chicken bite + Mayo + Homemade teriyaki + seasoning= Total Happiness!
2️⃣ Terimayo Fries Cup: The cup that won’t share!

​Your River Market experience just got flavor. Catch us this weekend. 👇
​

04/05/2026

A quick favor from Mogu Team

To our wonderful Mogu Family & Supporters, Hitomi and Leo here,

As many of you might know, we prefer spending my heart and energy in the kitchen and the family rather than on social media.Our focus has always been on providing authentic food and a great experience for you here in Whanganui.

​However, because we are not very active online, we don’t have many reviews. This has allowed a few unfair and malicious comments to significantly impact our overall rating.

​We are never afraid of honest feedback. Your real voices—whether they are words of praise or suggestions for improvement—are what drive us to grow and serve you better. We want Mogu to be part of this community for a long time to come.

​If you have enjoyed a meal with us, could you please spare a minute to leave us a Google review?
https://g.page/r/CdNTFqOi9PoJEBI/review

Your support helps protect our small business and keeps our 130-year family heritage alive.

​Thank you for being part of our journey.❤️