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Talofa lava,

 

April has rolled in, and with it comes a little bit of everything—Easter, celebrations, full tables, and a calendar that’s starting to fill up quickly.

It’s also my birthday month… so naturally, I’m finding any excuse to indulge!

 

There’s a lot happening across both cafés, and I wanted to share a few things I’m especially excited about.

 

First up, our Farm House Great Easter Eggventure is happening this Friday—and this year, there’s a little twist.

It’s not just about hunting for Easter eggs. The kiddies will be making their way through a series of fun, hands-on activities across the farm, turning it into a full adventure rather than just a hunt.

It’s the first time we’re running it, and we’re really excited to bring something a little more interactive and memorable for the little ones.

 

If you haven’t signed them up yet, there’s still time-but not much. Hop to it, parents 🐣

 

We’re also bringing back our Paddock to Pastry Walk as part of the East Auckland Walk Fest after selling out last year. This time round there's not one, but two options to choose from! It’s such a beautiful way to experience the farm, hear a bit of our story, and finish with something warm and well-earned at the end.

 

Now… Easter wouldn’t be Easter without hot cross buns.

 

At Hill House Cafe, our Pani Popo Hot Cross Buns are back-soft, coconutty, and known to disappear quickly. Inspired by my Samoan heritage and, just between us, a secret recipe “borrowed” from my aunty… Shhhh.

 

And over at Farm House Cafe, we’ve got our Hot Cross Sin In A Bun – inspired hot cross buns - a little indulgent, a little nostalgic, and very hard to stop at just one. 

 

Think of it as a bit of a hot cross bun hunt for the adults - start at Hill House for a Pani Popo, then make your way out to Farm House for the Hot Cross Sin In A Bun. A very good reason for a little cafe hop this Easter.

April always feels like a bit of a reset -especially with daylight savings ending this Sunday. The days start to cool, the mornings slow down, and there’s more reason to gather - whether that’s with family, friends, or just your usual coffee crew. Easter, for me, has always been a really special time. It’s when my (very big) family comes together, and I’m reminded of how important those moments are.

 

That sense of connection is something we hold close across both cafes -creating spaces where people can come together and enjoy being with one another.

 

On another note, my inbox lately has been inundated with wedding enquiries, which can only mean one thing — it’s definitely planning season.

 

And I have to say, I genuinely love reading through every single one. Hearing your ideas, your visions, how you imagine your day coming together, it’s such a privilege to be part of that process.

 

So if you’ve been thinking about reaching out, keep them coming. I’m here for it!

 

Finally… because it’s my birthday month, and because we’re launching something I’m very excited about; I wanted to do a little GIVEAWAY.

 

We’ve just created our brand new Sin In A Bun CAKE, and I’m gifting one very lucky April baby their very own cake on us.

 

All you have to do is reply to this newsletter with your April birth date - or nominate someone you know who’s celebrating this month and absolutely deserves it.

 

Sell it to me. I love a good story. I’ll choose one winner to indulge. The only condition? I will be expecting a photo in return… no cake disappears without evidence around here 📸

 

Thank you, as always, for being part of our community. Whether you’re joining us for an event, a walk, or just popping in, we’re always so grateful to have you with us.

 

Fa'afetai tele,
Lans 💛

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EASTER HIGH TEA AT FARM 
 

Join us at Farm House Café this Easter for a special four-course, Easter-inspired High Tea, running Friday through Sunday.

 

A beautifully crafted experience perfect for celebrating the long weekend. Spaces are limited, so jump online and secure your booking now.

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MEET THE TEAM

Some chefs cook. Some chefs lead. Some chefs build entire kitchens, cultures, and menus from the ground up.


Marc is all of the above. From the moment he stepped into Hill House Group, Marc brought intensity, creativity, and a level of standards that pushed all of us forward. He’s the kind of chef who doesn’t just want things to be good — he wants them to be exceptional. Every plate, every service, every detail.

 

And while the job can be full on (and let’s be honest… sometimes slightly chaotic), Marc thrives in it.

“My job can be incredibly challenging and stressful at times — but it’s very rewarding. Satisfying lots of happy, hungry customers with the food that we make — that’s the goal every day.”

 

That’s what drives him. Not ego. Not shortcuts. Just the pursuit of great food and happy guests. But behind the standards and the fast-paced kitchen energy, there’s also something else Marc values deeply — the people.

“I also love that we genuinely feel like a family… a dysfunctional family… but still a family.”

 

And honestly… that sums us up pretty well.

When it comes to food, Marc keeps it real. No overthinking. No fluff. Just proper, satisfying dishes done right.

 

Favourite menu item?
👉 Lamb omelette at Farm House.

 

“It existed before I joined, but it’ll never come off the menu. It’s farm-style through and through. Lamb is a must on any good Kiwi menu — and having it for breakfast is a bit of a twist. Plus… it’s a mighty generous portion.”

 

And spare time?

“Spare time? What’s that?”

 

Marc has been instrumental in shaping what Hill House Café and Farm House Café are today — from the menus you love to the standards behind the scenes. 

 

And right now, he’s leading the development of our Mother's Day High Tea experience across both venues, working closely with the team to create something truly special.

 

Marc, you’re an absolute powerhouse — and we’re lucky to have you leading the charge.

MARC 

Executive Chef & Culinary Force

Behind It All

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HILL & FARM HOUSE CAFE NEWSLETTER | EDITION 006
APRIL 2026

APRIL at the cafes - EASTER, birthdays & SWEET CELEBRATIONS 

 LEILANA - Owner

Join Lans as she shares what’s happening across Hill House & Farm House this April. From Easter celebrations and family-friendly events to delicious seasonal treats, exciting giveaways and a look behind the scenes, this month’s newsletter is all about bringing people together, creating memories and celebrating our wonderful cafe community

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