The question we’re always asked is:
“Why did you call it Monkey Farm?”

​Come and meet Mel's youngest boy and you’ll quickly understand the name choice!

​After a much-loved chapter and a full-circle moment, Mel proudly bought Monkey Farm back at Christmas 2025 — not just to reopen a venue, but to rebuild a place with heart.

​At Monkey Farm, we’re all about great food, cold drinks, and creating the best spot in Wanaka to relax — whether you’re on your own, with a partner, a group of friends, or the whole family.

​Come in your trakkies or fully glammed up… heck, we don’t even mind high-vis tradie boots fresh off the job.

But Monkey Farm is more than just a café and bar.

It’s a platform to make change, a place to bring people together, support local causes, spark conversations, and generally do some good shit within the community.

From backing local initiatives to creating a safe, welcoming space where everyone belongs — if we can help, we will.

The playground connected to our outdoor area keeps the kids entertained, while our food and beverage menus take care of everyone else.

​With no hire charge* and the option to book the entire venue or choose the perfect spot in the café or garden, Monkey Farm is the perfect setting for your next function — a special celebration, a wedding (1st, 2nd or 3rd… sometimes you have to kiss a few frogs 🐸), or even a laid-back business meeting.

​Monkey Farm isn’t about perfection.

It’s about people, purpose, and doing things a little differently — together.