The Figgery Cafe & Shop

With a Mediterranean climate at your fingertips, it would be a crime not to cultivate one of the world’s most treasured fruits. Thankfully, Murray Douglas and Helen Walker recognised this potential when they made the move from Sydney to Hawke’s Bay in 2008. Their vision led to the creation of Te Mata Figs, bringing an abundance of bell-shaped beauties to the region and beyond.

What was supposed to be Murray and Helen’s retirement years was taken over by a fervent passion for figs. Today, this family-owned business specialises in organically grown figs and award-winning products from over 30 unique varieties. There’s over a thousand trees on their Havelock North property – with tours available for groups of six or more – as well as fig orchards spread across other warm regions of the North Island.

After several years of success selling fresh figs and beloved artisan products across the country, Murray and Helen decided to take things one step further. In 2020, they opened The Figgery Cafe & Shop, showcasing the versatility of these sweet fruits in everyday dishes, complemented by local, seasonal ingredients. The cabinet is a fig frenzy of sweet and savoury delights, with a brunch and lunch menu also available, including a cheeseboard (a fig’s best friend), fig granola and baked salmon coated in fig molasses. And, though you would never know it, everything here is completely gluten free. Oh, and there’s even a cup of fig coffee to wash it all down.

The corner of the cafe proudly showcases the full Te Mata Figs range. From fig paste, jam, and mustard to chocolate-covered treats, drunken figs and prebiotic powders, there’s no fig product they haven’t mastered. Make sure you grab a scoop of fig ice cream on the way out, and you’ll leave with a smile as big as Figgles, the friendly purple mascot by the entrance.