Around the world on Waiheke Island
Japan
Japanese Hospitality, Reimagined on Waiheke
Japan is known for its attention to detail, thoughtful hospitality and a deep respect for ingredients. At Floating Café Koko, those traditions arrive at Waiheke Marina with a distinctly island flavour.
Owned by a Japanese family, Koko brings together the craftsmanship of Japanese cooking with fresh, relaxed waterfront dining. Their signature rice breads are baked in-house daily, creating a light and unique alternative to traditional loaves, while their sandwiches showcase ingredients prepared with extraordinary care.
At the heart of many dishes is a traditional awasedashi broth, slowly crafted using 18-month-aged bonito and prized Rishiri kelp. Meats are cooked gently at low temperatures until perfectly tender, resulting in layers of delicate flavour and texture that make every bite memorable.
Alongside Koko's Japanese-inspired menu, visitors can experience one of Waiheke Marina's most charming activities – hand-feeding fish from the marina boardwalk. It's a simple pleasure loved by children and adults alike and adds an extra touch of fun to a leisurely lunch by the water.
Whether you're stopping in for a beautifully made sandwich, a coffee in the sunshine, or introducing the family to fish feeding at the marina, Floating Café Koko offers a taste of Japanese hospitality that feels perfectly at home on Waiheke Island.
Experience Japan, right here on Waiheke Island.
