Matahiwi Gallery

My partner and I (Wellington-based) stopped by for an early morning coffee while camping up the Whanganui River. Cannot recommend highly enough! Beautiful location, heritage garden, and a prop boat from the iconic NZ wars film The River Queen (2005) is parked out front. The cafe is a former Native School building, restored and eclectically decorated, with select pieces of art, weaving, and beautiful pounamu for sale. Bella, a senior jack russell terrier; the sweetest and gentlest of souls, might greet you if you're lucky enough to be there when she is (I was a one-time visitor so cannot attest to Bella's hours, locals feel free to update). The baking is lovely and the vibe is simply impeccable. This place is a treasure <3