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It’s Farewell From The Fig

After Nine Years, a Much-Loved Local Café Says Farewell to the Community

Written by

@TheInformerNZ

Published on

After nearly a decade of serving locals and visitors, Bev Calder has announced the closure of her café, marking the end of a significant chapter in Whitianga’s hospitality scene.

It’s farewell from Bev and the team.

After 9 years we have made the tough decision to close the café. A new business will be taking over the space closer to Christmas. We look forward to seeing a new business to town and wish them success. 

Bev Calder
Bev Calder

 It sure has been a journey since taking over in 2017; lots of ups, lots of cyclones, road closures, main street upgrade, a war in Iran, an economic downturn, and not to forget Covid! 

 During this time, we have lost two incredibly special people, my mum and dad, Daisy’s grandparents, and have gained the most beautiful grandson, Lenox. A special ‘Thank you’ goes to Ajay for his ongoing support and patience over the last few years!

 I would like to thank the many great staff that we have employed over the years. A special thank you to Debbie who has been my rock for the last 9 years. We have buttered heads, laughed and cried together, but I will miss you so much.

 To all the others who have passed through and, “my kids” – Bryn, Paris, Izzy, Lachie, Alex, Nico, Angel, Coleville, Tony and Lexi. I have watched you all grow up and turn into great adults. There are many others, including Liss, Judy Powell and Annabelle who have helped make our little café into what it is today.

 To Daisy and Dary (Basker) – thank you for always stepping in to help at a moment’s notice. 

 To my customers, who have been loyal over the years – I will miss our chats. However, I look forward to seeing you around town.

 We will continue to operate Basker – Modern Beach Kitchen and I look forward to watching the team there grow and maybe catching up with some of you and a chat. 

 For now, I head back to Bayley’s, I would also like to thank my team there for being so supportive, especially over the last 3 years as I have worked between both businesses.

 Our last day of trading will be Sunday, 2 August 2026.

Signing off for the last time Bev Calder and her team x


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