Waikouaiti cafe’s new part-owner a familiar face

Flora Lira and partner Logan Ralston — seen here with their children (from left) Luca, 8, Enzo, 14, and Ivar, 5, and family dog Trunks — are the new Outpost Cafe owners in Waikouaiti. PHOTOS: SUPPLIED

Ms Lira is known by many locals, as she previously worked for Common Ground Espresso Coffee in Dunedin and delivered the coffee to The Outpost Cafe.

"I supplied Outpost Cafe with coffee, commuting from Dunedin one day a week", she said.

"Waikouaiti is a beautiful community.

"Everyone knows my face ... It has been so busy with the cafe opening and then we had the Pink concert in Dunedin, so I have been working since", she said with a laugh.

The Outpost Cafe in Waikouaiti reopened under new ownership after a stocktake last Saturday.

Originally from Brazil, Ms Lira has lived in New Zealand for 21 years and said she was "more Kiwi than Brazil" now.

Her partner in life and business, Mr Ralston, is from Southland and grew up in Alexandra.

Located in Main St in the heart of the township, the cafe is a busy stop for tourists and locals alike.

Previous owners Scott and Sarah Johnson wished the couple every success and thanked everyone for their support over the past four years.

jules.chin@alliedpress.co.nz