Our Story
How Maia and Jono turned a Kingsland shopfront into the neighbourhood's living room.
The Beginning
Kohi started in 2023 when Maia and her partner Jono took over an old barbershop at 469 New North Road. They'd both spent years working in hospitality around Auckland and wanted to build the kind of cafe they always wanted to visit: somewhere relaxed but put-together, with good coffee and honest food.
The name comes from kohi, the te reo Maori word for coffee. It felt right for what they were building. Not a brand exercise, just a word that captured the thing at the centre of everything they do.
They stripped the old barbershop back to its bones, kept the concrete floors, and filled the space with natural wood, indoor plants, and pendant lights. The kind of place where you can work on your laptop for a couple of hours, catch up with a friend, or grab a flat white and a pastry on the way to work.
The food is simple and done well. House-made pastries, cabinet salads, all-day breakfast, and a small lunch menu. Everything sourced as locally as possible. No fuss, no pretension, just food that makes your morning better.
What We're About
We take our coffee seriously but not ourselves. Expertly pulled shots, proper latte art, and a decaf option that doesn't feel like a compromise.
No gimmicks. Just well-made brunch, house-baked pastries, and cabinet food that's fresh every day. We source locally wherever we can.
We know our regulars by name. Dogs are welcome. There's no time limit on your table. This is your living room as much as ours.
The Space
Events
Every last Friday of the month, we push the tables back and put the records on. Next up: Friday 28 March. Bring your own vinyl if you've got something good, or just come and enjoy the music. Jazz, neo-soul, and whatever else feels right for the evening.
No cover charge. Just good vibes, coffee, and community. Follow us on Instagram for announcements.
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