We thought we’d tip you off with some of the best coffee rest stops around the North Island as we head into the summer break. We’re a little bias of course but we promise you won’t be disappointed!
In the North
Helena Bay Cafe — Nestled in the trees on the scenic coastal route to Russell in the Bay of Islands you’ll find Janet and her team at Helena Bay Cafe. They’ll be serving Kōkako espresso coffee for you to enjoy on their sheltered deck with one of the best views around.
1392 Old Russell Rd, Helena Bay
Rothko — If sea views aren’t for you, you’ll find views of another kind whilst enjoying a Kōkako brew at Rothko in Matakana. Surrounded by over 400 sculptures in the Sculptureum Art Garden, you might like to take that coffee for a little walk to take it all in. If you’d like to peruse Rothko’s menu before you head their way you can find it here on their website.
40 Omaha Flats Rd, Matakana
Little Red — Little Red is the perfect sunny holiday refuelling spot. Find them situated on the site of a 1940s engineering workshop in Waipu, right next to the big Black Shed. Their new barista Shannon will be serving coffee (or icecreams if it’s roasting out) all summer long.
7 Cove Rd, Waipu
Parsley Pot — You don’t want to miss Parsley Pot on any trip to the North, they won Junction Magazine’s 2017 Best Cafe award. Find this little eatery on the edge of their family farm halfway between Warkworth and Snells Beach. A beautiful garden, Kōkako coffee, Dr Feelgood Pops and farm to table food - what’s not to like!
786 Sandspit Rd, Snells Beach
Auckland’s Outskirts
Frenchot — If you’re heading out to the Island over the break make sure to stop in at Frenchot - Waiheke Island’s authentic French Bistro and Crêperie. All their pastries are all freshly made on site each morning. Find a breezy spot under one of the giant umbrellas in the backyard.
8 Miami Ave, Surfdale, Waiheke Island
Piha Café — Out at one of Auckland’s favourite beaches you can enjoy a warm cup of Kōkako coffee while cooling your black sand burnt feet. Find a seat in the shade under their new outdoor covering.
20 Seaview Rd, Piha
Middle-ish Earth
Sabor — Right beside the Te Awamutu Aquatic Centre, the one with all the bells and whistles, you’ll find a refreshing new option for breakfast or lunch. Sabor (flavour in Portuguese) is run by Tatiana, Hussain and their team - serving fresh juices (made to order), Kōkako espresso and adventurous food to everyone who passes through. You don’t need to be swimming to enjoy their vibrant fare - there’s plenty of seating out the front in the sunshine.
3a Selwyn Lane, Te Awamutu
Storehouse — Storehouse is our all time favourite spot in the heart of the North Island, you cannot miss it on a trip to the great lake. Tuck into a delicious lunch complimented by a fresh coffee, or two.
14 Runanga St, Taupō
Oh Boy Tacos — Find Matt & Josh rolling around the Coromandel this summer in their bright red food truck. They’ll be serving our Nitro Cold Brew on tap alongside their ever changing menu of (oh boy!) tacos. Make sure there’s time to challenge the boys to a round of ‘Corn Hole’ before you get back on the road.
Follow their truck here on Facebook, or here on Instagram.
Punnet — Once your belly has recovered from Christmas, and you’re craving some summer berries again, you best be on your way to Punnet — Tamahere’s premium strawberry farm and cafe. Their menu celebrates Waikato-grown seasonal produce with a focus on simplicity and flavour. We recommend sipping on a Kōkako brew whilst picking strawbs in the garden.
337 Newell Rd, Tamahere
Where ever you might be headed, be sure to check out this map listing all the Kōkako Outpost across NZ, before you set off. We’d love you to send us a snap with one of cups along your way. Happy Holidays!
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