WWOOF, WWOOF
No, WWOOFing isn’t anything to do with
dogs! It is about workers, called ‘woofers’,
undertaking 4-5 hours work daily in return
for learning, meals, and accommodation.
The experience provides the opportunity for
an exchange of work and knowledge with
each gaining from the other. There are two
types of exchanges:
organic and cultural.
Organic hosts are farmers who enjoy
passing on their knowledge of organic,
biodynamic and sustainable farming or
gardening.
In a cultural placement “social, humanitarian
and conservation experiences” are provided
like building projects, animal care, crafts or
sustainable tourism.
Set up in the 1970s, the organisation has a
long and respected history. To learn more
see
T
HE COROMANDEL BREWING COMPANY
in Hahei is nearing completion of their new
building (the equipment is installed and the
brewing has begun). The new brew pub, built
on the spot of the Grange Bar and Restaurant
(destroyed by fire last year), is owned by Neil
and Karen Vowles.
Even though they had no idea they would ever
want to move from Matarangi, when they saw
this location...they loved it. They moved!
Their restaurant and bar offerings are not
The Grange in Hahei was a total loss and required a complete rebuild for Coromandel Brewing
Company owners Neil and Karen Vowles. Above, the construction crew takes break last October
after raising the new walls. Top, the new building gets finishing touches and a fresh landscape.
finalised as yet, but they do intend to focus on
good NZ beers (of course), good wines, and
good’n’simple food. All is ‘good’!
“The garden already looks beautiful,” shares
Karen. “Offering extensive outdoor seating, this
will be a family friendly venue for all to enjoy!
We’ve met some great people and love being a
part of the Hahei community.”
They look forward to the launch party as spring
approaches. Meanwhile, stop by and say hi!
(And check out their progress on facebook.)
OUT OF THE ASHES!
Coromandel Brewing Company “opening soon!”
Kuaotunu foodie Luke Reilly has recently
taken over the former Blackjack Gallery
Espresso space, right next to his famous
pizza place on the corner of Blackjack Rd.
“The expansion will be serving up mean
coffees and ‘fresh as’ sandwiches”,
says Luke. “Gallery-wise, we are eager
to showcase the works of the talented
artisans within our small community.”
The concept of the gallery of artworks by
local artists, Coffee Lala and muffins will
stay, but Luke will add his magic culinary
touch by offering an expanded range
of eats, including scones, savouries,
sandwiches, cakes, and cookies. Expect
live entertainment in the mix as well.
“We’ve been busy painting and building to
provide more indoor seating,” says Luke,
“and we’ll freshen up the gallery displays.”
The café will be open 7 days as usual.
On the pizza side, Luke’s Kitchen Winter
hours are 11am-8 pm Friday through
Sunday. “And we are developing a menu
to feature some winter warmers”, he
explains.
See Luke’s Kitchen on Facebook, and
check out this stunning video short!
Luke’s Kitchen
expands to
include the
Cafe &
Gallery
41
hospitality scene
morepork echoing across the valley add to
the enchantment.
Andreas is currently expanding his vision of
“an enjoyable place to share” by building a
semi-open function area to provide “a very
lovely warm space” for weddings and other
activities. Lake Rotoiti logs have already
been used to fashion tables and benches.
This is indeed his paradise and guests
continue to be thoroughly intoxicated by
this ‘getaway from it all’ retreat as evident
from comments in the guest books!!
Enjoy brisk starlit skies from the deck, then
pop inside, all woodsy and warm. A cosy
fire at the Bush Chalet is always laid ready
for guests.
The call of the kiwi are often heard thanks
to the preservation efforts of nearby
Project Kiwi and surrounding areas
protected by a QEII covenant.
