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Volkswagen’s Little Legends: James, Rook Café

James from Rook Café with the Volkswagen Polo on Hereford Street, Christchurch

The Volkswagen Polo is returning to New Zealand, so we’re teaming up with the Volkswagen Polo to meet some little legends of our own: the people behind the places that make Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch special. We handed each of them the keys and asked for their favourite spots.

I’m one of the three behind Rook Café in Christchurch. It came about almost by accident, actually. I’d been working full-time as a graphic designer, and through that I happened to get to look around the new NZR Co Building on Hereford Street while it was still in its early stages. We immediately saw an opportunity for a small café to serve the building. Then it all escalated way more than I expected!

We spent a bit of time figuring out what we were all passionate about and landed on specialty coffee and creating a space that encourages people to talk and connect. That’s why everything’s designed to face towards the centre!

It’s been such a joy building something that feels fun and alive. I’m the ‘creative’ and ‘vibes’ guy, so I get really into everything from the social content and music to books and all the little aesthetic details that influence how the space feels. Ultimately, we want Rook to create some kind of community, even if someone’s only there for a short coffee or bite to eat.

Christchurch feels really alive at the moment. New places keep opening up, the hospo community is super supportive and people seem inspired and confident about what they’re doing again. You’ve also got so much within reach. You can surf at Sumner and snowboard in the same day, drive along the beach around Pines Beach or jump in the car for a road trip to Tekapo, Hanmer Springs or Queenstown. It’s EXCITING.

For getting around town, though, the Polo was a great fit. I live in the city, so something that’s easy to drive and really nippy is ideal. It’s super quiet too.

These are some of the places I love to visit.

Stand a chance to win a luxury weekend getaway in Auckland with the Volkswagen Polo by nominating your favourite local legend via the Little Legend Hub.

Noki

6 Papanui Road, Merivale, Christchurch

This is my go-to when I want to get away from my own venue for a bit. The food is world class, the coffee is great and the service is always so good. It’s an easy one to keep coming back to.

Akin

235 High St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

Another café I really rate. It’s one of those places where you can sit down with your laptop and actually get some work done, while still being able to rely on really good food and drinks.

Marlowe

A newer spot in town, but I can easily see it becoming one of my top five Christchurch restaurant recommendations. The food, atmosphere and drinks are all high quality. One to watch for sure.

Gatherings

5/2 Papanui Rd, Merivale, Christchurch

The attention and passion that goes into every meal here is insane. The team feels really focused, and you can tell they genuinely love what they do and it shows in the food that gets put in front of you.

Sakimoto

Sakimoto is my hidden gem. I probably eat here at least once a week on average, which says a lot. The food is delicious, it’s usually busy and the price point is great. It’s also one of my go-to places to take people when they’re visiting Christchurch.

Frances Nation

28 Worcester Blvd, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

Their Arts Centre location already does some heavy lifting in the vibes department, but the sandwiches and coffee here make it such a great place to stop if you’re out exploring the CBD.

Butcher’s Pie

You can’t get much more classic Kiwi cuisine than a good pie, obviously. This one in Riverside is a great shout. The service is amazing and there’s a really good variety (pies and otherwise)!

Base Pizza

One of only two pizza places I regularly order from. It’s consistently great. There are heaps of options on the menu and they’re just really great at the craft! I can trust it’ll be delicious every time.

Gussy’s Pizza

My other regular pizza place is Gussy’s. If you want a banging pizza that’s good value for money and actually has some great (non-boring) options in the mix, this is where I’d recommend going.

Papa Smashies

This is the spot when I want a burger that just ticks all the boxes. They over-deliver every time! There are some cheeky off-menu items in the mix too - ask about them. A very easy recommendation for any foodie friends.

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