There is something about a community cafe that stirs all sorts of memories. My visit to Mosgiel’s Aurora Cafe took me back to my childhood when we would stop off at “tearooms” and I’d slide my tray along the front counter, picking food as I go.
Aurora Cafe is located in the site of the first Bank of New Zealand in Mosgiel. The building, once home to Buckley’s Shoe Shop, still bears the well-known Buckley’s neon sign on top of the building.
Another feature of the site’s former life is the children’s shoe train which is still in use today. The train combined with the cafe’s playground and colouring-in equipment will keep the children entertained for ages.
With the kids satisfied I turn my attention to satisfying my stomach. Cheese rolls, club sandwiches, homemade cakes and slices to a hearty southern full breakfast it was a good thing I arrived hungry.
Owners Jillian and Grant Peacock have owned Aurora for about three years. During that time they have transformed it into much more than another cafe. It’s very much at the heart of the community right down to what adorns their walls – artworks of Taieri College students to the Rotary Electronic Community Noticeboard.
At Aurora Cafe I found a place that can be enjoyed by anyone at anytime of the day. I loved my visit not just because of the wholesome kiwi tucker, but the atmosphere, the memories it revokes and its family friendly facilities.
*Grant, I appreciate the old saying there’s no such thing as a free lunch. I hope the dishes I washed where up to your high standard. I’ll be back in soon.
