The Village Bakery Cafe and Roast Waiouru is a bakery on State Highway 1 in Waiouru, Ruapehu, rated 4.7 from 7 reviews, with customers praising the pies, roasts including a large pork roast, custard slice, all day breakfast, chicken and chips, big portions and good coffee. A roadside bakery on a stretch like the Desert Road earns its reputation on being a reliable stop rather than a destination, since there's little else along that part of State Highway 1 for a long way. Big, filling food and quick service tend to matter more here than presentation, since most customers are mid-journey and want something substantial before getting back on the road rather than a sit-down meal. A wide pie range is a road-trip staple in New Zealand, and getting the pastry crisp rather than soggy is what keeps travellers coming back on this route. On State Highway 1 in Waiouru, this bakery is a well-known stop on that journey.