Horopito Cafe

Orokonui Eco Sanctuary Rapid 300 Blueskin Road, Waitati 9081, New Zealand
+64 3 482 1755
$$$ Cafe
(22 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Nestled within the stunning Orokonui Eco Sanctuary, Horopito Cafe offers a delightful retreat for both nature enthusiasts and food lovers alike. With breathtaking views overlooking lush valleys and the Silverpeaks, this cafe is not just a pit stop; it's an experience! Open Thursday to Monday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Horopito Cafe serves up a generous selection of mouthwatering bites and invigorating beverages.

Stepping inside, you’ll find a spacious dining area that, while comfortably modern, is infused with a homely charm. The warmth of the cozy atmosphere, complemented by a crackling fire, makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a scenic stroll through the sanctuary. Patrons can bask in the panoramic views while indulging in their delectable offerings.

The star of the show for many is undoubtedly their renowned savory scone—often hailed as "NZ's best" by satisfied customers like Oliver Creighton. Imagine biting into a freshly baked scone, perfectly toasted and oozing flavors that dance on your palate. Alongside this, don’t miss the hearty sausage rolls and the inviting selection of fresh soups, vegan banana muffins, and generous cheese rolls that have pleased countless visitors.

Reviews consistently rave about the atmosphere, with customer Nina Molteno praising it as a "lovely setting" and highlighting favorites like the quiches and roasted vegetable salads. Every plate is a representation of fresh, quality ingredients, expertly prepared and served with a smile. Hannah Zhang noted the cafe's efficient service and delightful lunch offerings—something you won't want to overlook on your visit. The friendly staff, defined by their genuine warmth, enhances the already inviting experience.

Whether you're warming up after a chilly walk or taking a leisurely break during your visit to the eco sanctuary, Horopito Cafe is the ideal destination. With a culinary journey that brings together comfort and quality, every coffee served is rich and robust, rounding out the perfect midday meal.

If you're in the area, make sure to stop by Horopito Cafe—you won't regret it. This hidden gem awaits you with delicious food, an inviting atmosphere, and an exclusive chance to savor the vibrant flavors of New Zealand.

Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Openings Hours

Monday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

22 Reviews
Oliver Creighton

19 Aug 2025

A wonderful time at the ecosanctuary, followed by a just as good experience at Horopito. Coffee was nice and strong, but the highlight was certainly NZ's best savoury scone! Can't wait to make my own. Will be sure to stop by when I come back to Dunners

Hannah Zhang

03 Aug 2025

Great savoury scone (properly toasted) and sausage roll for lunch when visiting the bird sanctuary.

Jane Bruce

27 Jul 2025

Horopito cafe is now open again - from 9:30am-3:30pm, Thursday to Monday. Our morning tea savoury scone, anzac caramel slice, vegan banana muffin were all delicious. Friendly efficient service. Only suggestion I'd make is to provide a pot of hot water with the tea. Looking forward to trying the new lunch menu - cheese rolls, parmesan tart, salad, butternut/mushroom pasties, brioche toasties etc. The toetoe in the garden are spectacular at the moment- a favourite place for families with young children and for outings with elderly parents, becsuse of the easy access.

Nina Molteno

26 Jul 2025

Lovely setting overlooking the Orokonui Ecosanctuary and valleys towards Blueskin Bay. Spacious dining area, slightly echoing. Delicious food, coffee and tea. Highly recommend their soup, little quiche with roast veg salad and the cheese rolls. Coffee very good too. Very much enjoyed our lunch.

Sandor

18 Jul 2025

After a chilly walk there's nothing better than sitting by the fire, having a coffee and a treat at Horopito Cafe. Beautiful atmosphere, amazing people, and a wonderful spot to marvel at the Silverpeaks in the western skyline.

Eric von Nida

21 Jun 2025

This place was a very pleasant surprise. Not just a cafeteria which you sometimes get at tourist places. We had a very nice coffee before our tour then lunch afterwards. The food was very tasty and good quality with a good selection. The green salad was EXCELLENT and the cake and berry smoothie delicious.

George Geraldine

15 Jun 2025

Best chai late I've ever had from a Cafe. Uses real spices. Iced chocolate is less sweet than most places which is nice and great sausage roll and chips.

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