TenKu Collective

I’m sure you all have many reasons to go to Waipukurau on a random weekday morning. I didn’t, but now I do. TenKu Collective has opened on Ruataniwha Street, and it is worth the drive. 

(I say this as if I am speaking to anyone in Napier or Hastings, rather than actual CHB locals – and this is purely because from what I have witnessed, pretty much everyone in Central already knows and loves TenKu.)

Amy Tennent and Emma Kupa have brought to fruition their combined idea for a homeware/design/fashion/gifting/coffee hub, and it’s beautiful. There’s a warmth about the space as soon as you cross the threshold. You’re greeted by a welcoming café set-up, serving eightthirty coffee and Ya Bon pastries, plus smoothies, Parker’s juices and Mama’s Brew Shop kombucha. Locals perch at a couple of high tables, sipping and munching, their purchases nestling beside them. 

And then there’s the store itself.

The layout is clean and cool, but cosy. Fedoras from Electric Pukeko, bags from Piny Rider, Just Another Fisherman menswear, activewear from Solo, One Seed perfumes, picnic bags from Slow Life Collection – these are some of the goodies I’m most taken with while I browse about the place, waiting on an energiser smoothie and a flat white. So many good goods in one place. 

There’s a queue forming in front of the coffee machine as locals and passers-through stop to caffeinate. What makes this place work is the combo – refuelling and retail therapy. TenKu brings together Amy and Emma’s specialist areas, with Amy contributing her experience with interiors and design and Emma having the background in hospitality and business. The place feels like a seamless coming together of beautiful things – and beautiful smells!

Thanks TenKu – I am now someone who wears a hat, and someone who will drive to Waipukurau on a free Wednesday morning.

The TenKu online store will be stocked up and operational soon. Keep an eye on Instagram too, to see garments modelled and hear about new stock arriving. 

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1 Comment

  1. Been there a few times for the coffee and carrot cake – both top notch! Well worth a visit. Could do with another table or two!

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