Our story
Nestled in the heart of sunny Hawkes Bay, Kai and Coffee has been a favourite gathering place for locals since its doors first opened in 2015. The café was co-founded by John Smith and husband-and-wife team Theresa and Piripi Ngata, a partnership that beautifully blends modern and traditional values.
Their vision? To nourish body and soul by combining "kai," the Māori word for food, with the universal love of coffee. It’s more than just a place to grab a bite; Kai and Coffee is an experience rooted in the land and its history.
Hawkes Bay is renowned for its beauty, but it’s the rich cultural heritage of the region that truly sets it apart. The area has long been home to Ngāti Kahungunu iwi, one of New Zealand's largest iwi. The conneciton between iwi and the land has been a source of strength and sustenance, with fertile soil and an abundant coastline providing the means for traditional fishing, gardening, and foraging for native plants. It’s this heritage that the café honours in every dish they serve.
The café’s menu is a tribute to Māori culinary traditions, infused with a modern twist. They source fresh, local ingredients, often native to the region, and present them with a dash of creativity. From fresh fish to kawakawa-infused teas, the menu speaks to the café’s deep respect for the land and its people.
But what truly sets Kai and Coffee apart is how they honour the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi in their daily operations. They are committed to biculturalism, integrating Māori values into the core of their business. This means not only supporting local Māori suppliers but also offering bilingual service in te reo Māori and English. The café’s motto, *"Whangaihia to tinana ki te kai organic"*, meaning "nourish your body with organic kai," is proudly displayed in both languages, reminding visitors of the café’s commitment to inclusion and respect for Māori culture.
John and the Ngata family have created more than just a café—they’ve built a community hub that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Hawkes Bay. It’s a place where you can sip on a beautifully brewed coffee, enjoy a slice of mānuka honey cake, and feel connected to the land and its history.
Meet our Team
John Smith, co-founder of Kai and Coffee, began his career as a sommelier, honing his expertise in fine wines and the art of pairing flavors. It is appreciation for quality and craftsmanship of local flavours that led him to partner with the Ngata family in 2015 to create Kai and Coffee.
Committed to supporting local producers, John carefully selects the café’s wines and craft beers from Hawkes Bay’s renowned wineries and breweries. His dedication to sourcing local ingredients not only strengthens ties with the community but also ensures that customers enjoy the finest flavors the region has to offer.
When he is not out sourcing the best of Hawkes Bay produce, he can be seen doing duty as the in-house barista.
Theresa Ngata, co-founder and head chef of Kai & Coffee, is a proud member of Ngāti Kahungunu. With over 15 years of experience working in restaurants across the globe, Theresa has developed a deep love for culinary diversity and innovation.
At *Kai & Coffee*, Theresa artfully blends modern cooking techniques with the flavors and ingredients she grew up with, creating a menu that honors the land and her whakapapa. Her dishes, often featuring native plants and sustainable ingredients, celebrates both past and present. Theresa’s global experience and deep connection to her heritage make her a culinary leader, passionate about nourishing the body and soul through food that tells a story.
Piripi Ngata, co-founder and Front of House Manager at Kai & Coffee, is the welcoming face of the café, known for his affable nature and warm hospitality. A proud member of Ngāti Kahungunu, Piripi’s expertise lies in front-of-house management, where his positive attitude and genuine care make every guest feel like part of the whānau.
After years of living and working abroad, Piripi and his wife Theresa decided to return to their roots. Piripi takes pride in ensuring that every aspect of the café reflects their values—nourishing not just the body, but the spirit. His love for people and attention to detail means that every customer is greeted with a smile and treated to an unforgettable experience.