New food bar set for summer

 

BY ROB POOLEY

While nobody is actually saying business is booming in Mangawhai, several business are moving to larger premises while others are trying something new and adventurous, so there is plenty of optimism among business folk.

It is in that category we found Hazel Rosa who, with a little help from her Dad, has purchased the former Salad Box in the Wood St shopping complex.

“It’s my first business venture,” says Hazel “but my sister taught me to cook and with experience gained in seven years living in Australia and a passion for food I’m ready for the challenge.” 

Hazel is no stranger to Mangawhai having grown up between Mangawhai and Kaiwaka and attended Mangawhai Beach School where her daughter now goes. She has come full circle and admits ‘it feels like home again’.

It has been a process slower than expected as a number of changes needed to be made and Council regulations have had to be met to allow food preparation of food on site.

“The Council are viewing things favourably, and with luck our signage will be sorted, all the t’s crossed and i’s dotted allowing us to open in two to four weeks.” 

Hazel is initially looking towards a summer menu that will include fresh juices, fresh fruit smoothies and gourmet salads with edible flowers – a clean green lunch or snack option right in our midst.
The new name will be Manga Kai. 

“I checked out the meanings of the word ‘Manga’ and one said leafy green so that worked in well with my philosophy on food.”
A bit of work to do before opening day to put her own stamp on things but as we move towards spring and summer, Manga Kai should be a place we will all want to visit.

Hazel, pictured with daughter Beija, is back home in Mangawhai and looking forward to being in business.