Maungaturoto going Mexican

 

The incomparable flavours of Mexican California have come to Maungaturoto

Kimberley Gabbard, owner of Whole Life Organics, was approached by Alejandra Perez for a job in late 2018. This was their first meeting and, given that they are both expat Californians reminisced about their favourite Mexican foods and the lack of it in New Zealand, even in the main cities – nothing like the incredibly diverse flavours offered on the streets of Southern California. 

They also agreed that a “real New Zealand town” like Maungaturoto should sample the project before any other place in New Zealand. Kimberley and Alejandra have big plans to spread their ‘delicioso’ dishes across the nation.

Once a popular health store, the transformation to Whole Life Organics Mexican has proven so popular that it has become difficult just keeping up with supplies due to the number of times the cafe has been completely sold out.

Kimberley, a natural food chef, creator of the Amazing Banini ‘smoothies’ still used in cafe chains around Hawaii, was also the former owner and executive chef of The Heavenly Taste Catering in Los Angeles. 

Kimberley is obsessed with what she calls “street food”, a term that refers to the ubiquitous food carts that deliver ready-made, fresh Mexican food made with time-honoured, home-spun recipes. 

Alejandra was taught to cook by her mother, who was born and raised in Mexico City. 

“The taste combination of American California and Mexico is something people have to experience for themselves - no amount of words can do it justice,” she says.

This means changes for Whole Life Organics. Shop stock is going to be liquidated to make way for healthy Mexican takeaways, so there will be great deals on all clothing, jewellery, baby care, skin care, remedies, supplements, food, and chattels.

So as the sun sets on Whole Life Organics, the sun rises on the Two Jalepinas. Made with quality authentic Mexican ingredients they will specialise in gluten-free, plant-based meals. 

“Be warned,” says Kimberley. “Forget all that you knew about Mexican food, this is a new paradigm for New Zealand!” 

Foodies can look forward to Chicken Crispy Tostada, Nacho Man Nachos, Jumping Jack Spicy Taquitos, and much more.

 For more info check out their Facebook page fb.me/wholelifeorganics.

Alejandra Perez and Kimberley Gabbard can’t wait to launch their Mexican taste sensation on the population.