Sixteen years ago, plant-based food in New Zealand was often dismissed as niche, bland, or “hippie.” little bird kitchen helped change that story.
Founded with a bold vision to show just how vibrant, indulgent and flavourful plants can be, little bird kitchen became a pioneer of the plant-based movement in Auckland — and across New Zealand. What began as a passionate mission grew into one of the country’s most celebrated cafés, helping redefine how Kiwis experience plant-based food.
A Legacy of Influence
little bird kitchen didn’t just serve food — it shaped conversation.
Founder Megan May’s best-selling cookbook The Unbakery: Raw Organic Goodness was translated into multiple languages around the world, bringing Little Bird’s philosophy to global kitchens. Her second cookbook, Little Bird Goodness, further cemented the brand’s influence.
The café has been featured numerous times in Metro’s Top 50 Cafés, Lonely Planet’s top plant-based cafés in the world and consistently ranked among Tripadvisor’s Top 10 Auckland Cafés for travellers, earning multiple Certificates of Excellence.
Collaborations That Defined a Movement
Through its renowned Plant-Based Challenge Chef Series, little bird collaborated with some of New Zealand’s most celebrated culinary names, including Nadia Lim, Al Brown, Jordan Rondel and Michael Meredith — proving that plant-based cuisine belongs at every table.
The kitchen has hosted workshops and events alongside international brands and wellness leaders, strengthening its reputation as a hub for innovation and inspiration.
Over the years, celebrities have quietly made it their favourite Auckland spot. Actors like Austin Bulter, Jason Stratham & Benedict Cumberbatch made it a home away from home, as well as directors and some of the words most famous musicians making little bird a must whenever they are in town.
little bird kitchen has even travelled beyond Auckland — appearing at Wellington on a Plate and bringing its signature plant-forward philosophy to Tokyo, Japan.
The Heart of It All: Community
Perhaps the proudest achievement isn’t awards or accolades — it’s impact.
It’s the fathers, friends and sceptics who were brought in by loved ones “just to try it” — and left surprised, delighted and converted.
It’s the customers who have been coming through the doors since the beginning, 16 years ago.
It’s the belief that food can gently shift perception — not by preaching, but by delighting.
little bird kitchen has always stood for adding more plants to the plate — more colour, more nourishment, more flavour, more joy.
Showing that eating real wholefoods is timeless.
The Next Chapter
After 16 extraordinary years, little bird kitchen is ready for its next chapter.
This is not simply a business for sale. It is an opportunity to become the next custodian of a beloved brand with deep roots, strong goodwill, national recognition, and untapped future potential.
With an established identity, loyal community, proven systems, and a pioneering legacy in the plant-based space, little bird kitchen offers a rare opportunity to step into a business that has already shaped an industry — and is ready to evolve again.
The question now is: Who will become its next custodian?
Business Sale Listings:
https://www.abcbusiness.co.nz/property/36393/-auckland/ https://www.abcbusiness.co.nz/property/36099/-auckland/
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