New juice bar offers new drink options
Loaded shakes and smoothies a hit
Te Awamutu has a chill new spot to enjoy a cold drink, with Chilld Juice Bar & Co opening last Monday behind the main street. “I just looked at what Te Awamutu didn’t have and what I thought they needed. A juice bar just sounded perfect,” says owner/manager Tangiwai Mahe.
“My inspiration was my mum, as she loves a fresh juice but always struggled to find anything available locally, or much selection/variety.”
Chilld Juice Bar & Co is located at the previous premises of Cutthroat Brothers, which Tangiwai and her husband Tyrone also own.
“We had an empty shop sitting there, as Cutthroat Brothers had shifted onto the main street, so we thought, why not use it?”
Tangiwai says it’s definitely a family affair, as she currently employs her older sister, sister-in-law and cousin.
“My sister and I actually came up with our drink ideas, which were all very random. We spent days testing out different flavour combos and seeing what fruits taste best together.
“We wanted to create flavours that weren’t the same as, say, Tank, or your average juice you get from a bakery or cafe´ — our flavours are unique, but delicious.
“Our specialties at the moment would have to be our loaded shakes, Chilld smoothies and, surprisingly, our green juices. I say ‘ surprisingly’ as green juice isn’t for everyone, but so far, it’s been a hit.”
When the thought of opening a juice and smoothie bar came about, Tangiwai says that she had wanted to create a space that had a “chilled vibe” to it, and that’s how the name came about.
As well as the “chill vibe”, their menu makes them stand out from similar businesses.
“We have a good selection of fresh cold-pressed juices that you won’t find anywhere else in town, flavourwise — same with our famous loaded shakes.
“We are also the first to offer Nitroinfused cold brew coffee, which has definitely been a favourite,” she says.
“One major goal I have right now is turning the juice bar into a cocktail bar in the evenings.
“Customers are loving the idea, so I’m getting onto that as soon as possible. So, watch this space.”
Currently they are walk-in and dine-in only, but are looking to expand to phone/text orders and deliveries to local businesses in the near future.
“Come down, check us out and see what we are about. We have loved seeing everyone so far and appreciate all the feedback.”
Chilld Juice Bar & Co is based at 246 Alexandra St (accessible via Churchill St) and is open seven days.
On Monday, Wednesday and Friday, doors are open from 9.30am5pm; Thursday, 9.30am-6.30pm; Saturday, 9.30am-2pm; and Sunday, 10am-2pm.