Fill-up with fuel and food: Flick the Bean

Filling up the car with petrol and grabbing a hot coffee on the run go hand in hand.

Opening a coffee shop onsite at Challenge Waimak was a logical step forward for the Kaiapoi service station, owned by Mark Wales for 15 years and managed by Melissa Sayers for six years.

Flick the Bean opened in June following a year of research by the pair. They chose Switch coffee, for the flavour, because it’s local, Fair Trade, and 100 percent Arabica beans.

Supporting local businesses and being supported by their community is important to them.

“The area is being done up, there’s a big park-and-ride next to us, so a lot of people are coming and going, and we’re looking to expand and provide seating, too.” says Melissa.

Three qualified baristas – Kerry, Amy and Rachel – have 50-years combined espresso machine operating experience and also serve tasty homemade food.

Locals can text their order on the way to work on 022 382 3877 to be picked up at Flick the Bean next to Challenge Waimak 5 Main North Rd, Kaiapoi. Daily scone flavours are on the website.

www.facebook.com/FlicktheBeanchch