Interview - The Wholemeal Cafe, Takaka
Posted by Helen Rupp on
The first in our series of interviews with eateries that have switched away from plastic straws is with Wayne Green, the owner of The Wholemeal Cafe in Takaka, Golden Bay
Established in 1977, The Wholemeal Café has strong roots in a commitment to wholesome nourishing food, strong communities and a simpler life more in touch with nature.
Sum up your café in 5 words….
Spectacular, Simple, Sustainable, Seasonal, Sensational
What did you want to be as a kid?
A missionary or a jazz singer!
What living person do you most admire, and why?
The Dali Lama - his calmness and philosophy on life and living make sense to me.
What is your favorite quote?
"There is a crack in everything that's how the light gets in."
What is your proudest moment?
Being able to hold both my parents’ hands as they passed from this life.
What is your biggest work-related challenge?
Keeping the cafe interesting and vibrant and paying my key staff and local suppliers well, while not going broke.
When are you happiest?
Alone in my cafe after a busy day or when enjoying quality family time.
Why should other cafes / people make the swap to paper straws?
The thought that the plastic straw that you just sucked down your smoothie with, will still be intact when your grandchildren have grandchildren, is chilling. It’s typical of the short term thinking that prevails. Don’t think a small step like changing your straws won’t matter, it does. It’s all part of changing the consciousness.
How do you relax?
Yoga, singing, drinking good wine.
What impact has swapping the straws made on your business?
It makes me feel better about the waste my business produces - a small step but a step non-the-less.
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By Hannah Beasley
