Welcome deflects chill of downturn

The Coach Caffe in Raetihi is practically an institution in the Waimarino town.

The building is dated 1903 and historical photographs on the wall show it was an integral meeting place in the once-bustling little town.

Today the Coach Caffe is run by Sandy Brett, who is working to keep the local bonds among the town's residents alive.

The economic recession over the past year had really dealt to the town, she said.

"And we've had a dreadful summer, a terrible winter and spring is not shaping up so good, either."

She's amazed that she is still having to get in firewood.

"I really thought we were on our last load but if the weather keeps going like this, we'll be having fires through to Christmas."

Ms Brett, who lives on the premises, heads through to the cafe every morning, making sure the fire is lit, the place is cosy and cooking is under way early.

"It's not a good time for the town, and I have to say we have had it really hard. No one is making money. It's shocking. There's been no tourists to speak of through here for so long."

She said her main reason for keeping the cafe fire burning was so the locals could come in, enjoy a warm place to sit and read the papers.

"Look, I don't care if they just buy a coffee. They can sit here on the sofa by the fire for as long they want to and keep warm."

And a few locals who were a bit lonely liked to come in, warm their toes and have some company, she said.

"And I'm very happy for them to stay in here ... all day if they want."

Home cooking is the mainstay of the cafe and visitors are encouraged to stay on the premises and relax after having a meal.

"I'm very happy to see people. They are always more than welcome to come on in for a nice chat and warm by the fire and they don't have to buy anything. I'm happy to see them and to have them here."