New Life for Iconic North Canterbury Building

Media release for immediate use, 7 May 2007

New Life for Iconic North Canterbury Building

One of North Canterbury’s best-known historic sites is about to be given a new lease on life as a vibrant new dining and boutique-shopping destination.

The Mill, on State Highway One just north of Waikuku, is soon to be home to a new eaterie and coffee house, Brick Mill Café, which will open alongside unique gift and craft shops in the building.

Originally built in 1870s, The Mill has a long history as a hay baling twine factory and pottery workshop. In the 1960s, it was the largest twine factory of its kind in the world.

The building’s owner, and part-owner of Brick Mill Café, Paul Sanderson says The Mill’s manufacturing history has given it a quieter atmosphere and the new development will see it become a hive of activity.

“We expect Brick Mill Café and the surrounding shops will attract thousands of people to The Mill each year. It’s wonderful to think so many people will be able to enjoy this iconic building,” says Paul Sanderson.

Brick Mill Café Owners Janet and Kathie Scott (who are sisters-in-law) are in no doubt the development will be a success.

“This will be a place where people can relax by the warmth of an open fire, enjoy excellent locally roasted and uniquely blended coffees and fresh, simple cuisine, which will use local ingredients wherever possible,” says Kathie Scott.

“It will also be a place where people can meander through a range of boutique shops, which offer everything from Vietnamese bamboo products to locally thrown pottery,” says Janet Scott.

The pair describes Brick Mill Café as “a little bit of country with a twist of urban sophistication.”

Janet and Kathie Scott are in no doubt Brick Mill Café will carve out its own place on the North Canterbury map.

“This will be an award-winning café and destination, North Canterbury deserves no less.”

ENDS

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