The Early Bird

1190 Pukuatua Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
+64 20 493 8872
$$$ Cafe
(147 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

Welcome to The Early Bird, a delightful café nestled in the heart of Rotorua at 1190 Pukuatua Street. This charming spot is a haven for coffee lovers and anyone seeking a cozy atmosphere to savor delicious treats. Known for its commitment to quality, The Early Bird serves organic coffee that is anything but a gimmick, boasting an array of flavors that celebrate the art of coffee brewing.

As you step inside, the warm and inviting ambiance wraps around you, inviting you to sit down and unwind. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, setting the stage for a truly exceptional experience. Whether you prefer a zesty Short Black or a velvety Flat White, there’s something for every coffee aficionado. Notably, the Cappuccino, topped with a delightful sprinkle of cinnamon and paired with a charming biscuit button, has left a lasting impression on many visitors.

But coffee isn’t the only star of the show. Guests have raved about the scrumptious baked goods, with the cheese scone being a standout. Bryan Lim described it as “a memorable delight that melts warmly in the mouth,” making it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge their taste buds. The bakery selection at The Early Bird is a testament to their dedication to quality, with fresh offerings perfectly complementing your favorite drinks.

Coffee lovers will also have the option of refreshing iced drinks, perfect for Rotorua’s warmer days. From the staple Iced Americano to the tropical allure of an Iced Chai Latte, there are tempting choices to quench your thirst during those sunny afternoons. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss out on their unique offerings like the Ginger Kawakawa and Feijoa and Apple, both of which promise an invigorating twist.

Among the glowing reviews, customers have expressed their gratitude for the friendly and attentive service. Annie shares her joy in finding a “lovely barista” and has returned for more heartfelt coffee moments. Berke Bulur echoes this sentiment, citing the cozy atmosphere and delicious delights as reasons to return to this caffeine sanctuary.

Though it’s a one-man operation at times, The Early Bird delivers a personal touch that resonates with everyone who walks through its doors. If you find yourself in Rotorua, make sure you stop by this lovely café to create your own morning magic. With every sip and bite, you’re bound to find a little piece of happiness at The Early Bird.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great coffee
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Has seating
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Tuesday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Wednesday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Thursday

6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Friday

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday

7:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

147 Reviews
Bryan Lim

03 Oct 2025

They use organic coffee, but it’s not a gimmick. It’s awesome coffee. The cheese scone was also a memorable delight. It melts warmly in the mouth, fills every inch of the taste buds. Simple amazing. Unfortunately, it’s a one man operation, which led to a long wait before my order was placed.

J S

02 Oct 2025

Super cup of coffee!! The lady there was lovely. The prices are reasonable. Can’t comment on the pastries/baked goods but they looked great! There was a small table inside the shop and a few in the hall adjacent to the shop.

shanpei hsieh

21 Sep 2025

The flat white and the spinach, feta & pesto (scone?) I took away were both absolutely delicious. Thanks for making my morning so lovely!

Annie

27 Aug 2025

The barista is lovely and all smiles for the morning coffee and, also the coffee tastes good. We were visiting for a few days but went twice and enjoyed it both times. The cinnamon sprinkle option for a cappuccino is great, with that little biscuit button on top. Would recommend if you're in Rotorua!

Berke Bulur

17 Aug 2025

The bakery selection was equally impressive, with fresh and delicious treats that paired perfectly with my drinks. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a great cup of coffee. The staff were friendly and attentive, adding to the overall wonderful experience. Highly recommend!

Andy Jaquet

12 Aug 2025

Really excellent coffee and pastries. A small cafe but well worth finding. So good it prompted me to write my first review.

Jess Charlesworth

22 Jul 2025

Coffee? Too bloody good. Scone? Fantastic. Hospitality and service? The warmest and friendliest.

Andrew Hurdle

05 Jul 2025

Amazing little shop. The coffee and treats are fantastic and the service is top notch. The owner is very sweet I would come every day if I lived here

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