Old School Cafe, Historic Café with Scenic Views & Great Coffee

Nestled in the tranquil and scenic Pakawau, just a short drive from the famous Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach, the Old School Cafe is a charming café that offers a cozy escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Located in a historic school building, this cafe is not just a place to enjoy fantastic food and coffee, it’s a destination that combines rich history, local hospitality and stunning views, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Golden Bay.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the Old School Cafe offers an unforgettable experience with its welcoming atmosphere, delicious menu and stunning location surrounded by natural beauty.

Features of The Old School Cafe Pakawau

Historic Location

The Old School Cafe is housed in a beautifully preserved historic school building that dates back to the early 1900s. The building itself is full of character and offers a unique atmosphere that combines the charm of heritage architecture with modern comforts. The cafe’s interior retains many original features, including classic wooden floors and large windows, creating a warm and inviting environment for customers.

Historic black-and-white photo of the old Pakawau School in Golden Bay, New Zealand, with schoolchildren and teacher standing outside the original wooden school building.
Students and their teacher outside the original Pakawau School building
Aerial view of the Old School Café in Pakawau, Golden Bay, New Zealand, featuring the café, garden bar, restaurant, swimming pool, and surrounding rural landscape.
Aerial view of the Old School Café in Pakawau, Golden Bay.
People enjoying outdoor dining and drinks at the Old School Café in Pakawau, New Zealand, with wooden picnic tables, garden flowers, umbrellas, and scenic rural hills in the background.
Visitors relax in the garden bar area at the Old School Café in Pakawau.

Delicious Menu

At The Old School Cafe, the menu is all about local, fresh, and homemade ingredients. The café offers a wide variety of dishes, from mouth watering breakfasts to hearty lunches and indulgent treats. Expect to find fresh salads, sandwiches, homemade cakes and locally sourced coffee. The café prides itself on its commitment to using fresh ingredients from the Golden Bay region, ensuring that every dish is as authentic and delicious as possible.

Popular Dishes

  • Breakfast Options: Try the famous Golden Bay Big Breakfast, packed with eggs, bacon, mushrooms and local produce or go for a lighter option like granola with fresh fruit.
  • Lunch Favorites: From homemade pies to sandwiches and wraps, there’s something for everyone, including vegetarian and gluten free options.
  • Coffee and Sweets: Indulge in a cup of locally roasted coffee, paired with one of the café’s signature baked goods, like their legendary lemon cake or carrot muffins.

Breathtaking Views

The Old School Cafe craft beer bar interior
The Old School Cafe features a stylish craft beer and wine bar with rustic wooden interiors, premium beverage selections, and a welcoming hospitality atmosphere.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Old School Cafe is its scenic location. The cafe is surrounded by the natural beauty of Golden Bay, offering stunning views of the Tasman Sea, rolling hills and lush farmland. Whether you’re sitting in the cozy indoor seating area or enjoying the fresh air on the outdoor patio, the views will take your breath away. The café is also located near the Wharariki Beach and Farewell Spit, making it the perfect pit stop after a day of exploring.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The Old School Cafe is a great spot for families and offers a welcoming, relaxed environment where everyone can enjoy a great meal. The café features a play area for kids, allowing parents to relax while the little ones play. The spacious outdoor seating area also provides ample space for families to enjoy their meals while soaking in the stunning natural surroundings.

Locally Sourced Coffee

Coffee lovers will find the Old School Cafe to be a haven for top-notch brews. The café serves locally roasted coffee from Golden Bay Coffee, ensuring that each cup is full of flavor and brewed to perfection. Whether you prefer an espresso, flat white, or latte, you’ll find that the coffee at The Old School Cafe is second to none.

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The Old School Cafe roadside entrance sign set against beautiful mountain scenery, welcoming visitors to a popular café, restaurant, and bar destination.
Entrance to The Old School Cafe featuring open doorway, welcoming signage, and charming rustic café entrance with “Dining in Class” theme.
The Old School Cafe entrance welcomes guests with its unique “Dining in Class” concept and warm country café atmosphere.

Nearby Attractions to The Old School Cafe

While you’re in Pakawau, there are a number of exciting nearby attractions worth checking out:

  1. Wharariki Beach: Famous for its dramatic cliffs, sand dunes, and the iconic Archway Islands, this beach is just a short drive from the Old School Cafe. It’s an excellent spot for beach walks, wildlife watching, and photography.
  2. Farewell Spit: One of the most unique locations in New Zealand, Farewell Spit is home to incredible birdlife, including the rare bottle-nosed dolphins and spotted shags. You can take a guided tour of the spit or enjoy the views from the coast.
  3. Abel Tasman National Park: About an hour’s drive from Pakawau, the Abel Tasman National Park is a must-see for any nature lover. The park is famous for its stunning beaches, kayaking, and walking tracks.
  4. Takaka: Visit Takaka, the lively town of Golden Bay, known for its local art scene, cultural heritage, and great cafes.

Conclusion

The Old School Cafe in Pakawau is more than just a place to grab a coffee it’s a must-visit destination that combines delicious food, historic charm and breathtaking views of Golden Bay. Whether you’re exploring the nearby beaches, relaxing after a long day of hiking or simply stopping by for a great meal, the Old School Cafe offers a unique and memorable experience that will stay with you long after your visit.

The Old School Facebook Page.

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