Rabbit Island Coffee Co. more than just coffee Successful business owners Bryn and Carley Lloyd say family and lifestyle drew them back to their Nelson hometown. One year on from purchasing Rabbit Island Coffee Co. the couple talk to Nelson Magazine about their journey thus far, being based at Māpua Wharf, and their visions for the future.
Bryn, can you share a little about your journey to purchasing the coffee business? Our story certainly doesn’t begin with coffee roasting, but it’s fast taking over our lives as we grow our new business and live and breathe it daily. Moving back from Wellington, the decision to settle in Māpua was non-negotiable. We’ve always loved it and wanted the kids to grow up in the village. After spending 15 years in tourism and Carley recently launching her own interior design business, Colourbolt, we were ready to take on another challenge. Changing careers is not something that
people take lightly, but for us, it was a nobrainer. What made it easier was the loyal following and quality product that the previous owners of Rabbit Island Coffee Co. had established, so we knew the bones of the business were good. Carley manages the artisan pantry side of the business and I the coffee. The roastery is a short walk from our house, so I tend to roast at 5 a.m when no one else is around. It’s certainly idyllic being right on the water with the sun streaming straight into the roastery and extra rewarding drinking coffee that I’ve roasted!
Being apart of the Mapua community is important to Rabbit Island Coffee Co. owners Bryn and Carley Lloyd.
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October 2023