New community hub for Lower Moutere
The opening lunch team at Komitimiti Riverside Café, from left, Anna Fluhrer, Thomas James, Verena Gruner, Ché Vincent, and Lisa Gruner. Photo: Fiona Nelson.
The re-opening of the cafe at Riverside Community in Lower Moutere earlier this month well-exceeded expectations.
Volunteer staff were ‘run off their feet’ as the cafe quickly filled with locals and travellers to the area wanting to enjoy the delights.
The cafe’s ‘soft opening’ was their start to the summer season and begins a new era for the café as a community hub, being run now by Komitimiti Association.
“Komitimiti was formed by a group of people who deeply care about building community and are committed to participate in the shaping of the beautiful future we all dream about,” says coordinator Verena Gruner.
“The project was born from the desire for a community space that gives people opportunities to experience ways of spending meaningful and enjoyable time together.”
The cafe provides the central hub for the Komitimiti project.
“Our vision is to create a venue with and for people in the wider Tasman area that serves as a space for connection in a relaxed, welcoming and playful environment.”
They serve simple dinner options, fresh salads, cabinet food and a range of cakes, coffee, and other drinks, catering for various dietary needs. The food is vegetarian or vegan and the drinks are alcohol-free.
“The shared pleasure of eating together is a special experience that connects people in many ways,” says Verena.
“Spending time with friends and family has become a luxury in these times of increasing pressure of coping with the daily challenges of making ends meet.
“We see there is an urgent need for opportunities where people can rediscover their humanity and create a culture that nourishes both body and soul.
“Komitimiti wants to respond to this need by engaging people in playful activities and inspiring experiences.”
With affordable, healthy, and seasonal food options as the backbone of the cafe, they also provide space for interactive games for all ages, music, art and craft activities.
Chē Vincent, who is the artist and steward of the cafe, including the extensive cactus garden, says people are invited to use the space and bring artistic and creative gatherings/offerings.
“The beautiful environment here offers many possibilities, and we are excited and committed to the shaping of Komitimiti’s future as a community hub. We want to encourage people to spend time together in creative ways that break barriers and create connection.”
The cafe is open Friday 10 - 8pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 - 4pm, and the venue can also be hired for private functions or events outside regular opening hours.
A membership system is also offered with benefits including a pouch of 12 ‘cats eyes’ worth $5 each, redeemable at the cafe, and the opportunity for members to sell their art and craft on commission.
For more information, email [email protected] or visit Komitimiti Riverside Cafe, 289 Main Rd, Lower Moutere.