Allpress Olive Groves are olive farmers, millers and expert blenders from Waiheke Island – a unique region with its own microclimate producing world-class extra virgin olive oil: “From our island groves to your table, our oils embody the bright, clean flavours of our place.”
This summer, they’re set to open Bistro Allpress. The concept is simple but special: a relaxed, elegant dining experience that lets their Waiheke-grown olive oil shine.
“We’ve always valued quality and simplicity,” says founder Michael Allpress. “With the bistro, it’s about sharing what we love – good produce, good oil, and that warm, unpretentious hospitality that makes you want to come back.”
From coffee to olives
When Michael Allpress sold his global espresso business in 2019, he wasn’t exactly planning on jumping straight into olives. But as it turns out, flavour is a hard habit to break.
In 2021, he took over the iconic Rangihoua Estate and number 29, combining them with his own olive grove and forming what is now Allpress Olive Groves. Since then, they’ve been producing some of the country’s most awarded extra virgin olive oils.
Recently, they’ve restored the onsite mill and opened their brand-new tasting room in their stunningly renovated space, ready to welcome visitors from all over New Zealand and beyond. Up next, Bistro Allpress – a place for people to eat, relax and feel at home.
Set to open mid-November, the bistro will offer an evolving, seasonal menu designed around local and NZ ingredients and, of course, their olive oils. Think fresh sourdough from their inhouse bakery served with new season extra virgin olive oil, rotisserie chicken and roast veg, fresh fish, and olive wood fired pizza. Dishes will incorporate oils all milled and blended on site. And for dessert? An olive oil chocolate mousse, naturally.
The space itself will be tucked into the surrounding native bush, with indoor-outdoor seating and a view over the groves. The design is simple and warm – inspired by the land but not trying too hard to be rustic.
For a causal dining experience, enjoy the sun-drenched courtyard with pizza kitchen and bar, perfect for those long summer days ahead.
The drinks list will feature wines and craft beers on tap, with a few clever olive-oil-infused cocktails in the mix.
The whole experience
What sets Bistro Allpress apart isn’t just the food – it’s the whole experience. Before or after your meal, you’ll be able to explore the groves, pop into the tasting room, or take a look at the mill to see how the oil is actually made. It’s a rare chance to see the full journey of an ingredient – from tree to mill to plate – all in one place.
And if lunch isn’t enough? They also have a collection of luxury holiday accommodation tucked away in the olive groves. A stay that combines wine, walks, and waking up to birdsong and a splash of olive oil on your morning eggs? Yes, please.
Why Waiheke?
Waiheke Island has long been known for its wine scene, beaches and laid-back charm. But Allpress Olive Groves is adding another layer to the island’s appeal – one that celebrates olives as more than just something you nibble with a glass of rosé. Here, they’re the hero. “There’s something really special about the micro-climate here,” says Michael. “The sunlight, the soil, the wind – it all contributes to growing incredible olives.”
This new chapter feels like a natural next step. It’s food with integrity. It’s not fancy for the sake of it. It’s honest, thoughtful and rooted in place – a reflection of everything the Allpress team has been building quietly over the past few years.
So, when can you book?
The bistro is expected to open its doors mid-November, with reservations opening soon via their website. The kitchen team is currently testing the menus and the team is hiring local staff to bring it all to life.
While it’s still a work in progress, one thing’s clear: this will be a must-visit for anyone who loves good food, beautiful places, and that understated kind of luxury that doesn’t need to shout.
Until then, you can visit the tasting room (open daily) or stay updated on the launch via allpressolivegroves.co.nz or Instagram @allpressolivegroves.
