Established in 2003 by Karl and Maureen on the corner of Clyde and Goldfinch Street, The Mountain Rocks Cafe & Bar has long been a staple gathering spot in Ohakune. Originally converted from the town's former video shop over a dedicated twelve-week build, the interior incorporates timber milled locally and logs sourced from the Karioi Forest, creating a warm, comfortable space that feels like an extension of home.
Known affectionately to locals as 'The Rocks', the cafe caters to both residents and seasonal alpine visitors throughout the year. Alongside hot espresso and full dining menus spanning breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the space features bi-folding windows, a leafy outdoor garden area, and a colorful collection of novelty wall art, clocks, and gifts on display and available for purchase.
Located on the bustling corner of Clyde and Goldfinch Street in Ohakune, The Mountain Rocks Cafe & Bar has anchored the local community and ski crowd since opening its doors in 2003. Converted by owners Karl and Maureen from an old building that previously housed the town video store, the space was carefully redesigned to feel like an extension of home. Using rustic timber logs from the nearby Karioi Forest and locally milled wood paneling, the interior blends mountain warmth with vibrant, welcoming colors and expansive bi-folding windows.
Affectionately dubbed 'The Rocks', the cafe has developed a reputation for keeping its doors open all year round, maintaining a trained local crew through both the snowy peaks of winter and quiet summer months. Whether you are fueling up early before heading up Mt Ruapehu or meeting friends for afternoon drinks, the atmosphere is deliberately relaxed and friendly.
Among the diverse cabinet offerings and hot menus, one dish stands out above the rest: the seafood chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. Developed in collaboration with an artisan baker in Palmerston North, the sourdough loaf is specifically sized and composed to be hollowed out, filled with hearty seafood chowder, and seated in a bowl without losing its structure. Highly sought after by both returning snowgoers and regular townsfolk, the chowder is kept ready and available from early morning right through the evening service.
Complementing the hot kitchen menus is a bustling cabinet filled with daily scratch baking. The kitchen produces fresh banana breads, savory and sweet muffins, traditional ginger gems, and an array of rotating slices. A notable menu highlight includes authentic Denheath custard squares, which are shipped in specially from Timaru.
Beyond dining, The Mountain Rocks functions as a cultural hub and gallery for the township. The cafe walls are hung with an eclectic assortment of funky wall art, decorative clocks, and unique giftware, all available for patrons to browse and buy.
For sports fans, the venue regularly screens big rugby matches on its large screen, including international and provincial games. With seating extending into a discreet garden area away from the street, the cafe accommodates morning espresso runs, leisurely midday lunches, and casual evening gatherings with ease.