Nor'Wester Cafe

The Nor'Wester was founded in 1997 by locals Trish and Tim Coleman, along with Trisha's brother Paul Gillman and his wife Ann. The aim was to provide a restaurant that would become the hub of the community, a restaurant that would endure through commitment to quality produce and the evolution of knowledge and skills. At the end of the first decade, full ownership was transferred to Trish and Tim, as Paul, Ann and family set out on new endeavours. The restaurant consistently employs around 15 people, all who either live, or have come to live somewhere between the Waimakariri and Hurunui rivers.

Set in a 1920’s bungalow, the Nor' Wester interior ambience is warmed by colours that reflect the Canterbury landscape, with native timber accenting, and an open fire. Dine alfresco on the verandah, or in the courtyard which features a beautiful phoenix palm.

Only 40 minutes north of Christchurch City, Nor' Wester is situated on State Highway One in the heart of Amberley, a small rural township which services surrounding agriculture and viticulture. The township is also a popular stop-off for travellers on-route to the Waipara Valley Wine Region, Hanmer Springs, Kaikoura, or to destinations further north or south.

We are commited to our craft, and to nurturing and growing the experience this sustainable restaurant offers you, and ourselves. We support our local economy through choosing local produce where possible, and we care about the environment.

Throughout our menus we aim for fresh uncomplicated dishes that really support the taste and texture of the great produce we have chosen, and that reflect our place in rural North Canterbury. Our awards will satisfy most that we understand the concepts and value of wine and food partnerships, and good service.

The beverage list includes a selection of fine wine from our local district the Waipara Valley, contrasted by wine from the rest of New Zealand and the world. We also serve a rewarding range of leading beers, spirits, and liqueurs, plus many non-alcohol choices.

Coffee connoisseurs can be guaranteed that we are a destination for that consistent “great cup”, and the Nor'Wester has received many accolades to support this claim. Since opening in 1997, we have been unable to go past our first choice in beans, Coffee Supreme from Wellington.

For travellers on-route to other destinations, more casual style food is also available, along with a selection of delicious small goods to accompany your hot drink.

The Nor'Wester is open every day from 9am through to evening close, including all public holidays, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

If you wish to make a reservation for today, please call us on 03 314 9411. For all other enquiries or reservations you can also contact us through this site.