Small Batch, Ripe Coffee Roasters

Ripe Coffee may call itself small, but it sure is mighty. This Petone-based coffee roasting company has forged its own distinct path, built a multitude of relationships, and has well and truly established itself as a trusty local for many Hutt goers. 

Acknowledging that the strong relationships formed between themselves and farmers, producers, suppliers, staff and customers have been crucial to their success, owners Jason and Cate love providing a place for the community to come together and enjoy good food, coffee and vibes. Their connection to the Hutt is paramount, and the naming of their espresso blends (Pito-One, Valley, Settler and Go-Bang) is intended to reflect this.

The coffee business started out as a basic set-up in a shed behind Go-Bang Espresso, a cafe that used to be situated on Petone’s Jackson Street. Coffee is where Jason’s passion lies, whether it’s in the roasting of the beans, cupping, or tinkering with the machinery. He’s also been known to regularly train future baristas and source wholesale equipment and beans for other providers. 

Cate’s contribution comes in the form of food and nutrition; she takes pride in offering an inclusive and delicious menu, one that acknowledges the diverse range of dietary requirements prevalent but ensures nobody has to compromise on taste. Everything on the menu and in the cabinet is made from scratch, and the menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal ingredients, ensuring both affordability and quality across the board. 

With a vision of continuing to be a Petone-based coffee roasting business with close links to the community, Cate and Jason plan on hanging around for a long while yet, so hopefully the community does too. As Cate and Jason’s mantra goes, ‘nice coffee, nice guys’ — and that they are.