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Gemma has been part of the Elixir Espresso at Middlemore Hospital since it's inception in January last year, that's when we first met her, and she's been working her hands bare on their Linea PB ever since — this little espresso bar can do up to 600 a day! Outside of Elixir, the Kōkako team often bump into Gemma at industry events and we're all in agreement that she is one of the most hard working and perceptive baristas we know!
When did you first start working with coffee?
About 8 years ago, I worked part time at a cafe during my first year of uni. Coffee wasn't even on my radar before they threw me on the machine.
What’s your go-to home coffee preparation method?
I use a Kalita pour over, I really enjoy the morning ritual of grinding beans with my little hand grinder and perfecting my pour method.
Who’s the most fascinating person coffee has connected you with?
On my travels in the UK I worked for a guy called Nick at a little coffee shop, Steam Yard (below), which was in it's first year of opening. With his best friend Matt, they took their passion for specialty coffee, music and all things Americana, and turned it into one of the best hangout spots in Sheffield. Nick saw potential in what I knew so far, and opened my mind to the world of specialty coffee, which I was thankful to be able to bring back home with me. As travellers do, I moved on after 6 months, but I wish I'd been able to stay longer - Nick has built his business and loyal customer base up so much in their 4 years, expanding the shop into a huge space with a training room attached, and have a massive Instagram following. Coffee shop owner goals!
What’s been the hardest skill to perfect in coffee making so far and why?
Latte art. I spent my first few years as a barista working in places where latte art wasn't expected. Now, working at a fast paced takeout espresso bar means there's less time and less need for beautiful looking coffee, but it's something I try to work on whenever I get the chance, for personal development and enjoyment.
Outside of making coffee, what do you enjoy doing?
I love to explore, finding ways to get out and about on microadventures around Auckland without a car. There's so much to discover in this widespread city.
Where do you get your caffeine fix on your days off?
Living in the city means there's heaps of great coffee shops to choose from, so I'm not really a regular anywhere.
One of my favourites is Best Ugly Bagels at City Works Depot - fun vibes, Havana coffee (a rare find in Auckland) and delicious brunch choices. I make sure to take my keep cup though as they're takeout only.
Do you remember what was your biggest day on the machine and how many coffees you made?
What comes to mind is more a whole season than one particular day, but last winter the hospital was beyond capacity for weeks on end, we were smashing out 600 coffees a day through that time to keep the doctors on their feet.
Catch Gemma at Elixir Espresso - Middlemore Hospital, Auckland.
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