In the small town of Paekākāriki, behind the counter of Beach Road Deli, is where Madison Arraj works her hospitality magic. Arraj grew up on the Kapiti Coast and adores the area, especially in the summer as the beach is only ever a minute or two away.
Her journey with Beach Road Deli began five years ago and has seen her progress from barista to cafe manager, but her love for coffee goes back years. What started as simply the next step in her career quickly became the focus of her work.
“I love the little details of the process and I feel I am a very meticulous worker who is quite particular about my space and what I'm putting out. Getting into my flow on a busy day at work when I'm smashing out coffees is so much fun and I love being able to provide a damn good brew.”
Arraj takes pride in being able to create an uplifting and supportive environment for her staff, the effects of which are reflected in both the welcoming atmosphere and outstanding level of customer service provided.
“Our cafe shines the brightest because of our wonderful team members. Customer service is the most important aspect to me and I really stress that importance onto my staff. We like to think that our customers get welcomed in as if they are being welcomed into our homes.”
Arraj also carefully curates different playlists to suit every imaginable situation at the deli, favouring sultry Jazz, Soul and R&B on cosy rainy days and Spicy Latin or Disco on busy days while the sun is out to encourage customers to get moving and staff to get grooving.
Customers are spoilt for choice with the cafe menu, pizza and bagels are the big ticket items but the cabinet full of home baked goodies are sure to please even the fussiest of eaters. Everything is made fresh daily with locally sourced seasonal ingredients, and according to Arraj, a dash of heart, soul and love.
The majority of Beach Road Deli’s customer base is made up of Paekākāriki locals, who have been supporting the small business since it opened 20 years ago. Arraj finds the continuous support from locals, and knowing that the service keeps them coming back, to be extremely rewarding.
Arraj is most likely to be found drinking either a soy mocha (easy on the chocolate) or a long black with cream. In her opinion, great coffee requires good body and flavour, combined with perfectly textured milk, but most importantly, needs to be made with care, attention and a little love.
