Who are we?

Our Story
Karaka Café takes its name from the Karaka tree — carried on waka by our tūpuna to Aotearoa.
The grove beside us was planted long before this building stood, a living reminder of connection, history, and home.
The Wharewaka is the realised dream of Taranaki Whānui, restoring tūrangawaewae and presence on the Wellington waterfront.

Our Kai, Our Culture
We celebrate our Māori and Pacific heritage through the Karaka Experience — hāngī-inspired flavours with a modern Kiwi twist.
Our menu showcases the taste of Hāngī and Umu, infused with smoked and earthy notes that honour the traditions of our ancestors, paired alongside our bistro-style favourites.

Kia Kaha Te Reo Māori
While not all our kaimahi are fluent speakers, te reo Māori is woven into our daily rhythm — spoken, sung, and lived.
From greetings at the counter to the music in the air, the spirit of te reo is felt throughout our café.

Our Vision
To manaaki our people and our manuhiri — welcoming visitors as whānau, and taking pride in all that we do.
Together, we honour our heritage, our whenua, and our community, creating a space of warmth, connection, and belonging on the Wellington waterfront.