Cafe Guide: Where to find the best matcha latte in New Zealand.
If you’re reading this, you’ve probably found yourself in a similar position to where we once were.
You stumbled upon matcha or green tea for the first time through a latte, ice cream, or cake, and discovered that you quite enjoy the unique, earthy flavour. You’ve decided that, yes, matcha is for me, and thus you’ve begun your journey towards becoming a matcha girly.
Welcome to the club sis, it’s trending for a reason.
What is matcha? Is it different from green tea?
Matcha and green tea, commonly used interchangeably, are actually different products produced from the same plant. The key differences between matcha and green tea come down to how each is grown, harvested, processed and consumed.
If we widdle it down to the basics, matcha leaves are shaded prior to being harvested, before they are steamed and grinded into a fine powder.
With green tea, the leaves are not shaded prior to being harvested, and they are processed by steaming and drying the leaves. When you drink green tea, you steep the dried leaves in hot water, making it similar to other traditional teas. Matcha on the other hand is a fine powder mixed into drinks using a bamboo or electric whisk.
Matcha beverages come in all shapes and sizes. You’ve got matcha teas, matcha lattes, iced matcha drinks, hot matcha drinks, so many matcha’s!
Why we switched to matcha:
Though we've been drinking green tea lattes from Starbucks since 2006, we properly switched over to matcha as our daily drink 10 years ago after being avid coffee drinkers. Although coffee gave us that robust kick to start the day, it also produced an undeniable caffeine crash in the afternoon that made us feel heavy and lethargic. After years of drinking coffee, the crash started to feel increasingly unsustainable. So we made the switch.
Like coffee, matcha also contains caffeine, however it also has a unique amino acid called L-Theanine. The combination of caffeine and L-Theanine creates a synergy that results in a slower, more sustained release of energy throughout the day. This was exactly what we were looking for — a gentle, prolonged boost without the sudden highs and lows associated with coffee.
So begins the search, what makes a good matcha latte?
When we first began our search, we were coming across one of two types of matcha lattes:
- The ultra-sweet, milky, starbucks-esque matcha.
- The terribly bitter and grassy matcha.
We believe that a good matcha latte starts with the type of matcha powder used. "Culinary grade matcha powder", which is usually more bitter, is typically intended for cooking. For a matcha latte, premium grade matcha is what you’d look for. Premium grade matcha powder produces a smooth and delicate consistency, with a delightful umami or savoury flavour. We'll explain why the typical "matcha grades Ceremonial, Latte and Culinary" are not used in Japan in our next blog.
Whether you prefer your matcha sweet or not is entirely up to you! We personally enjoy our matcha lattes with a little honey for a more complex flavour.
Where to find the best matcha lattes in New Zealand:
With the upwards trend in matcha over the last couple years, we’ve seen a greater presence of matcha lattes in cafes across the country. But with its growing popularity has also come an increased number of low quality matcha lattes.
Lucky for you, we’ve done the mahi. There are so many places now selling matcha lattes on menu - lucky us. Take a look at our list.
Auckland:
D.O.S.E On High — 5 High St, Auckland CBD
Tucked away on High Street, D.O.S.E On High is a sleek, minimalist espresso bar that has carved out a reputation for exceptional coffee and a moody, all-black aesthetic. But don't let the dark decor fool you. This spot is a haven for those who appreciate their drinks crafted with care, including their impressive matcha.
Rumours — 19 O'Connell Street, Auckland Central
Looking for the perfect spot for a solo date or a catch-up with friends? Rumours offer a welcoming and cosy environment. The interior blends natural elements like wood, sandstone coloured walls and steel to create a soft, minimalist design that feels instantly inviting.
While single-origin coffee remains a beloved brew of choice, the positive demand for matcha led them to add it to their menu. Now, both their carefully crafted single-origin and their high-quality matcha are loved and appreciated by customers. And if you're feeling a but peckish, you'll find a delightful selection of pastries on offer. Located in the heart of Chancery Square, 19 O'Connell Street, this cosy cafe is a must-visit if you're in Auckland CBD.
Origine Bistro — Commercial Bay Level 2/172 Quay Street, Auckland Central
Enjoy a quality matcha with beautiful views of the Viaduct Harbour. We were captivated by Origine Bistro's dedication to their craft, from hand-whisking their matcha to using oat milk in their popular blueberry matcha to ensure the vibrant and balanced flavours of both the matcha and blueberry shine through. The moment you step inside, you're welcomed into a relaxing, sun-drenched space, the perfect setting for any occasion.
Ahi. — Commercial Bay Level 2/7 Queen Street, Auckland Central
Ahi. which translates from Te Reo Māori to mean fire truly encapsulates the passion and drive that the team showcases to deliver an experience to customers that is memorable. Ahi is committed to using the finest, and freshest local ingredients. You can enjoy their freshly hand-whisked matcha with stunning views of Auckland's harbour. Ahi offers a perfect and unforgettable experience.
(Photo - Ahi.)
Honest Chocolat — Lower Albert Street, Commercial Bay
Originating from Matakana is Honest Chocolat, a decadent chocolate bar and boutique located on the ground floor of Commercial Bay.
A menu highlight of theirs is the Matcha White Chocolate made with vegan white chocolate and organic Thea matcha.
Try it out next time you’re in town!
Pink Neon Sign — Ground Floor 35 High Street, Auckland Central
Kingi — Tuawhiti Lane, 29 Galway Street, Auckland Central
Slow Koi — 227 Queen Street, Strande Arcade, Auckland Central
Craving an exceptional coffee and an excellent matcha? Look no further than Slow Koi, a unique cafe deeply inspired by Japanese tea culture. Here, the team invites you to awaken all your senses. From the sleek all-black interior and the beautiful locally crafted ceramics reminiscent of a serene Japanese Koi Pond, to their captivating goldfish tank display, every detail is designed to enhance your experience. And of course, your taste buds are in for a treat with their high-quality coffee and matcha. Situated in the Strande Arcade, located on Queen Street, Auckland CBD.
Slow Koi is more than just a cafe; it’s a tranquil escape. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, unwind, and fully immerse yourself in a truly distinctive cafe experience.
Federal Delicatessen — 86 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
Federal Delicatessen is an American-style diner that puts a Kiwi spin to New York deli. Federal Delicatessen's ambience is soothing with soft lighting and charming decor that has character to it. This makes the Federal Delicatessen feel like it truly belongs in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland. Federal Delicatessen has been awarded The Iconic Eats 2025 for their Chicken Salad Sandwich, so if you’re looking for an award-winning sandwich, you must try their Chicken Salad Sandwich. And if you’re needing a caffeine beverage, they also serve bottomless coffee and matcha. Truly a perfect place for coffee and matcha lovers alike.
Federal Delicatessen is located on 86 Federal Street, just next to the Skycity.
(Photo - Federal Delicatessen Instagram)
Pilar Cafe & Eatery — 2 Ponsonby Road , Grey Lynn
Located on Ponsonby Road is Pilar Cafe & Eatery, a cafe where you can find flavour-packed dishes with seasonal chef’s specials that are always changing to keep their all-day menu fresh! The cafe is homely and cosy with lively plants to add that lived-in feel to it. As a family-run business, they offer a warm and wholesome experience for their customers and always welcome them with a smile. You know what else is warm and wholesome? Their hot matcha! Which can also be served as an iced matcha, if that is what you would prefer instead. A weekend go-to spot for anyone looking for a quick bite or a brunch spot for friends and family.
Daily Daily Coffeemakers — 452 Karangahape Road, Auckland Central
Serving some of the best pour-over coffees in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, Daily Daily provides an impressive variety of beans sourced locally and around the world. Now, they also serve up quality matcha lattes!
Their cabinet food is limited, but the selection is always delicious. Whether you are craving something savoury or sweet, they will have it! Daily Daily is a cafe with a tidy, eclectic, minimalist interior design, a tranquil experience as soon as you step foot in the shop. A great place to escape the bustling city and enjoy a cuppa and a light meal.
Mor Bakery — 158 Remuera Road, Remuera
Mor Bakery has earned its reputation as a must-visit micro bakery. They specialise in viennoiserie goodies, which refers to a category of baked goods, often enriched with butter, and eggs that are similar to bread, but have a more delicate, and flaky texture. For example, croissants, pain au chocolat, and brioche. Mor Bakery has a tranquil atmosphere where minimalism and a sense of character intertwine together for that warm and inviting feel to the cafe. Here, at Mor Bakery you have a delightful selection of carefully crafted baked goods that would pair well with a matcha.
(Photo - Mor Bakery Instagram)
Blackdrop Eatery — 44 Broadway, Newmarket
Blackdrop Eatery is a small, but beautiful cafe located in Newmarket. They truly live up to their reputation as one the best spots for matcha in Auckland. The cafe is lively yet cosy making it an ideal setting for catching up with friends. Here, they offer a wide range of unique drinks that may seem uncommon, but that’s what makes the cafe stand out. You can tell they have put a lot of thought and effort into the drink combinations. While the matcha and coffee are the star of the show, don’t miss their delicious cookies and savoury pastries, which perfectly complement the drinks. If you’re ever in Newmarket, Blackdrop Eatery is a must-visit.
(Photo - Blackdrop Eatery Instagram)
Parable House — 45 New North Road, Eden Terrace
Stepping into Parable House feels like coming home. The interior is beautiful and homely, and with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a perfect spot to relax, rain or shine. This is a place where you can really feel the love and care from the owners, a welcoming vibe that the lovely, friendly staff carry through in their top-notch service. Their coffee is top-shelf and reasonably priced and for a different kind of ritual, they also serve quality matcha that is equally impressive. The menu is fantastic, offering plenty of options whether you’re after a small snack or a meal. It’s a great new spot for a catch-up or a quiet moment to yourself, and with a dog and kid-friendly atmosphere.
The Hideout Espresso Bar — 233 Symonds Street, Eden Terrace
Looking for a cosy spot to escape the bustling city? The Hideout Espresso Bar on Symonds Street is a true gem. This cafe lives up to its name, offering a small, but perfectly formed space where you can read a wide collection of manga, while you enjoy a refreshing mango matcha. It’s the kind of place where you can easily become a regular, thanks to the friendly service. It’s the ideal spot to start your morning or just tuck yourself away for a moment of calm.
Cotton Candy Eatery — 418 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden
Nestled in the heart of Mt Eden Village, Cotton Candy Eatery is a delightful spot offering a tempting collection of freshly baked goods, from cakes and muffins to cookies. Beyond their sweet treats, you’ll also find delicious savoury options and a menu with classic brunch dishes. Pair your chosen delight or dish perfectly with their premium coffee or a high-quality matcha for a truly satisfying experience.
(Photo - Cotton Candy Eatery Instagram)
Moreno Cafe and Bakery — 29D Woodside Avenue, Northcote
If you’re on the hunt for a spot that nails both classic Filipino breakfast, pastries, and matcha, you’ve got to check out Moreno Cafe and Bakery. While they're known for their amazing breads they put just as much care into their drinks like their Jackfruit Matcha, which is a must try. The whole place has such a bright and inviting vibe, making it an awesome spot to just relax and treat yourself.
Dulcie Eatery —33 King Edward Parade, Devonport
Located across the harbour bridge is a beautiful cafe called Dulcie with serene views of Torpedo bay. At Dulcie they have elevated the experience of a daytime eatery with its menu with classic dishes that can be enjoyed all day long, and its impressive interior design. The ambience of Dulcie is warm, cosy, and welcoming. Dulcie doesn’t just serve up great food, but they also serve up great coffee and matcha beverages. Enjoy great food and a delicious matcha latte with a beautiful waterfront view.
(Photo - Dulcie Eatery Instagram)
Farro Fresh
You can now find freshly whisked matcha at selected Farro Fresh stores throughout Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland! Known for their commitment to quality produce and gourmet delights, Farro Fresh is a great spot to grab a premium matcha latte. One of their selling points for their matcha latte is the free alternative milk options you can choose from such as, coconut, soy, almond, and oat. While you’re there, be sure to explore their delicious deli section, you’re bound to find the perfect pastry or savoury treat to complement your perfectly crafted matcha.
Locations: Farro Grey Lynn, Smales Farm, Mount Wellington, Epsom, Mairangi Bay and Mount Eden.
Waiheke Island:
The Loft — Tahi Rd, Waiheke Island
This cute gift shop has a cafe attached to it and is run by the lovely Sonja Read. You can find quirky gifting items that you can't find elsewhere. Come here for a bit of zen, do some shopping and enjoy the delicious matcha and drip coffee they have to offer.
Take A Bite Café and Bakery — 28 Belgium Street, Ostend
Located on the beautiful Waiheke Island is Take A Bite Café and Bakery. Known for their unfussy, satisfying food, this is the perfect place to grab a proper lunch or casual snack that's packed with flavour. But here’s a little secret, they also serve a delicious matcha.
(Photo cred: Darell Naguit Google Review)
Palmerston North:
The Bees Knees Cafe — 352 Albert Street, Hokowhitu
(Photo - The Bees Knees Cafe Instagram)
If you’re in Hokowhitu and looking for a spot that’s truly the best of its kind, The Bees Knees Cafe is exactly that. This local gem lives up to its playful name with a friendly, welcoming vibe that feels like a warm hug. They serve up seriously good coffee, but their matcha is also a real treat. You can partner your delicious matcha with their generously portioned food.
Hamilton:
Frank Foods — Tristram Street, Hamilton Central
Located on the ground floor of the Parkhaven building in central Hamilton is Frank Foods.
Open 7 days a week, this cafe is very passionate about their kai and serving up beautiful healthy foods.
Kudos to their barista for always making a gorgeous matcha latte.
Grey Roasting Co — 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East
Located within the vibrant Made Market Hamilton East, Grey Roasting Co. is a haven for coffee enthusiasts and casual cafe-goers alike. Beyond their exceptional coffee, they’ve also made a name for themselves with their matcha. They serve a smooth and delicious cup of matcha that is freshly whisked by hand. In fact, they’ve even featured creative specials like a strawberry matcha latte. The inviting space, with its clean interior and beautiful decor, offers a tranquil setting to enjoy your drink.
Golden State Coffee — Barbush, Hamilton
(Photo: Golden State Coffee Instagram)
Serving delicious food and drinks out of an adorable yellow food truck is Golden State Coffee.
They’ve mastered the art of the matcha latte adding a touch of vanilla syrup with coconut or oat milk.
Find them in Barbush Monday to Friday.
WYLD Raglan — 17 Bow Street, Raglan
Nestled in the heart of Raglan, WYLD Raglan is the perfect spot for a post-surf wind-down or peaceful moment for yourself. This cafe fully embraces the town’s laid-back vibe. They serve up delicious matcha. You can tell they put care into every pour and it pairs with one of their nourishing snacks. WYLD Raglan is the go-to for a mindful and memorable cup of matcha.
(Photo - Anna A. Google Review)
Red Kitchen Cafe and Store — 69 Mahoe Street, Te Awamutu
(Photo - Red Kitchen Cafe and Store Instagram)
If you’re in Te Awamutu and looking for a place that’s more than just a cafe, you have to check out Red Kitchen Cafe and Store. This spot is a local gem that combines a fantastic eating experience with a beautifully curated retail space. The dishes on their menu are delicious and it will have you coming back for more and they also serve a great matcha that would go well with any dish. It’s a perfect spot to grab a great meal and a matcha.
Wellington:
Pour & Twist — 13 Garret St, Wellington
(Photo: Pour and Twist Instagram)
A personal favourite of ours is Pour & Twist, Aotearoa's first and only fully manual brew bar.
Their matcha drinks are incredibly popular and for good reason.
Swing by and watch them prepare your matcha using a traditional bamboo whisk. A must-try if you’re in Wellington central.
Ground Floor Cafe — 52/70 Taranaki Street, Te Aro, Wellington
(Photo - Ground Floor Cafe Instagram)
For those exploring Wellington’s vibrant cafe scene, make your way to Ground Floor Cafe in Te Aro. This popular spot is not only known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious bites, but also for serving up truly exceptional matcha lattes. They understand the art of a well-made matcha, ensuring a delightful matcha experience for any matcha enthusiast. It’s the perfect stop for your daily dose of matcha.
Orient Cafe — 29b College Street, Te Aro, Wellington
(Photo - Orient Eats Instagram)
You know that feeling when you find a little gem that just gets it? That’s exactly how we feel about Orient Cafe in Wellington. It’s a cafe and homeware store, but don’t let that distract you because they take their matcha game seriously. The vibe of the space is super chill, and it’s the kind of place where you can grab a delicious drink, maybe find a beautiful piece of homeware or gift, and just enjoy a perfect Wellington moment.
The Oatery — Cuba St, Wellington
(Photo - The Oatery Instagram)
Love porridge? The Oatery is the porridge bar of your dreams.
Serving up a diverse menu of toasts, oats, and drinks, this quaint cafe situated on Wellington’s famous Cuba Street is the perfect breakfast spot.
Grab a matcha to go perfectly alongside your morning meal.
Swimsuit Coffee - 38 Dixon Street, Te Aro, Wellington
(Photo - Swimsuit Coffee Instagram)
For an excellent brew in Wellington, Swimsuit Coffee is a must-visit. With multiple locations including Dixon Street and Kelburn, they’re celebrated for their dedication to quality, offering both a unique coffee blend from local roastery Coffee Supreme and, importantly for us matcha lovers, a highly-rated matcha latte. Whether you’re craving a perfectly crafted coffee or a smooth, invigorating matcha, Swimsuit provides a fantastic experience alongside their delicious baked good and vibrant community atmosphere.
Lower Hutt:
Espresso High Cafe - 110 High Street, Hutt Central, Lower Hutt
(Photo - Espresso High Cafe Instagram)
For a fantastic spot in the Lower Hutt that understands both coffee and quality matcha, look no further than Espresso High. Beyond their extensive drinks menu, they’re proud to offer unique matcha lattes, crafted with premium Thea Matcha. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, this cafe is a must-visit for their delicious range of coffee and other delightful beverages.
Kireina Beauty & Spa - Opposite Petone Library | 3/193 Jackson Street, Petone, Lower Hutt
(Photo - Kireina Beauty and Spa Instagram)
For a serene escape that combines pampering with the goodness of matcha, discover Kireina Beauty & Spa in Petone, Lower Hutt. This Japanese-inspired sanctuary offers a range of luxurious treatments, from relaxing massages to rejuvenating facials. To enhance your post-treatment relaxation, clients are offered matcha lattes, providing a calming beverage to extend that feeling of tranquility. What’s more, you can continue this mindful practice at home, as Kireina also stocks Thea Matcha for purchase.
Comes and Goes Cafe - 259 Jackson Street, Petone, Lower Hutt
(Photo - Mana Google Review)
Come & Goes offers a unique cafe experience with a Scandinavian-inspired minimalist interior, aiming to build a circular relationship with its customers through delicious and inspired dishes crafted with local ingredients. While their beverage menu focuses on expertly brewed coffee and a curated tea selection, those on the look out for matcha will be delight to discover that they offer matcha lattes and they also have an innovative matcha cream brulee on the dinner menu, showcasing their creative use of matcha in a delightful dessert.
Christchurch:
Frances Nation Cafe — 28 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch Central City
(Photo - Frances Nation Cafe Instagram)
Frances Nation Cafe, located within the historic Arts Centre in Christchurch, is a truly special spot that feels like a curated extension of its sibling homewares store next door. While their coffee is exceptional and made with the local Prima Roastery beans, they also offer a fantastic matcha that’s a perfect alternative.
Sala Coffee — 1 Treffers Road, Christchurch
(Photo - Sala Coffee Instagram)
If you’re in Christchurch and on the hunt for a great cup of coffee or delicious matcha, you’ve got to check out Sala Coffee on Treffers Road. This spot is a real gem, known for its high-quality brews and friendly atmosphere. It’s a great local hangout with a cozy vibe that’s perfect for a catch-up or moment to yourself.
Untouched World Kitchen — 155 Roydvale Avenue, Burnside
(Photo - Untouched World Kitchen)
If you’re looking for a cafe that feels good in every way, Untouched World Kitchen is the perfect spot. The menu is filled with delicious dishes that feature fresh, wholesome, and seasonal food. Their commitment to quality is also shown to their menu of drinks, where you’ll find a beautifully crafted matcha.
