Red Bridge Coffee

A special kind of magic takes over when you exit the main town and enter the Hawke’s Bay countryside, with tree-lined roads winding through rolling hills and vineyards. What could make this scenic experience even better? An exceptional brew straight from everyone’s favourite coffee container.

Red Bridge Coffee has been around since 2017, named after the bridge that carries visitors over the Tukituki River towards the golden sands of Waimarama and Ocean Beach. The destination was created by big-hearted locals Mel and Ant, who saw an opportunity to transform a corner of Ant’s family farm into a community hub. With a big belief in great coffee to bring people together, Red Bridge has become a daily ritual for many locals (and their dogs).

The team collaborated with Hawthorne Coffee Roasters from Havelock North to create a custom blend unique to their site. Honey-coloured espresso shots are complemented by the freshest cow’s milk from a supplier in the neighbourhood, with dairy alternatives available too. Is it worth making the drive out of town every day for? Why yes, yes it is. Bring your own reusable cup if you’re grabbing coffee on the go, or sip out of a beautiful mug crafted by local potter, Kim Morgan.

Red Bridge’s reputation extends to their food offering as well, with a cabinet filled with sweet and savoury delights that take care of vegan and gluten-free folk too. There’s seasonal cakes and classic biscuit recipes, housemade scones, and talk-of-the-town toasties to keep you very well fed. Pull up a stool under a shaded table in summer, huddle around the outdoor fireplace, or hide away in one of the covered sheds when the sky throws a tanty. This is a destination for all seasons and all conditions.

We love a specialty coffee shop in the city, but the beautiful natural surroundings and family spirit of Red Bridge certainly add an extra shot of energy to the coffee ritual. Make sure you give Mollie and Cleo, the gentle coffee dogs, a few nice scratches for extra feel-good points.