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 twist, alongside our bistro-style dishes.

​

Kia kaha Te Reo Māori
Not all our kaimahi are fluent speakers, but Te Reo is woven into our daily rhythm – seen, heard and lived.

​

Our Vision
To manaaki our people and our manuhiri – welcoming visitors as whānau, and taking pride in all we do.

​