About Smith & Local
A Local Cafe with Heart in Parua Bay
Smith & Local is a warm, welcoming cafe, coffee shop and pizzeria in Parua Bay on Whangārei Heads Road. We serve coffee, breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, pizza, local art, live music and community events for locals, families, travelers and visitors exploring Whangārei Heads.
More than anything, Smith & Local is a place to gather. A place for morning coffee, family meals, catch ups with friends, creative nights, beach day stops, quiet moments and good conversations.
Two Eras, One Local Gathering Place
Smith & Local began with Helen and Fish, beloved Parua Bay locals who brought years of hospitality experience, good food and community spirit to this little cafe, coffee shop and pizzeria.
Now, Smith & Local has entered a new chapter with Regan. Originally from the United States, Regan brings her love of home cooking, international flavors and warm hospitality to Parua Bay while honoring the traditions Helen and Fish started.
With great coffee, fresh food, local art, live music and familiar faces, Smith & Local remains a place to slow down, connect and feel welcome.
Coffee Made for the Way You Live
Coffee is part of the rhythm at Smith & Local. Morning coffee before work, a flat white with friends, an iced coffee on a warm Parua Bay day, or a takeaway cup before heading toward Whangārei Heads.
We serve coffee with care in a relaxed, welcoming space where locals, travelers, tradies, families and visitors can slow down, catch up, or keep moving with something good in hand.
Food with Heart, Flavor and a Sense of Place
Food at Smith & Local is generous, comforting and made for gathering. Our menu brings together home cooking, cafe favorites, international inspiration and the warm hospitality of Parua Bay.
Stop in for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, pizza, burgers, cabinet food, sweet treats and rotating vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options whenever possible. Whether you are meeting family, coming back from Ocean Beach, or settling in for a local night out, there is always something worth sharing.
Art, Music and Community
Smith & Local has always been more than a place to eat. It is a creative gathering space for Parua Bay, where local art, live music, conversation and community all have a place.
Our walls feature rotating local and international art, and our events bring people together for First Fridays Art, music nights, creative gatherings and good food. Whether you are an artist, musician, local regular, visitor, family, or someone looking for a welcoming place to connect, Smith & Local is here for you.
"Love this place. Love how Fish & Helen have created such a great place for the community to "hang out" for a wine or two. Great coffee, great food and great ambience - what more could you ask for (and great "bunless" burger when you're trying to be healthy!)"
- Jodie H.
"A fine cosy gem with food- to lick your fingers off! Just the right place to stop by on your way to the Ocean Beach. 5 Stars"
- Maria B.
"Best pesto scones we've ever had! So good we got some to take away. Friendly service, great atmosphere, delicious smoothie and iced coffee. What an absolute gem of a place! Can't wait to go back for pizzas."
- Claire L.
Fuel for Slow Roads and Salt Air.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smith & Local Coffee Shop
Come Visit Smith & Local in Parua Bay
Stop in for coffee, breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, pizza, local art, live music and a warm welcome at Smith & Local cafe in Parua Bay. Located on Whangārei Heads Road, we are an easy stop for locals, visitors from Whangārei, and anyone exploring Whangārei Heads, Ocean Beach, Mt Manaia, Taurikura or Urquharts Bay.