From July, guests across the resort may have noticed something new in their morning ritual. We are delighted to now serve the Ryder Millbrook Blend, a custom coffee developed in partnership with Ryder Specialty Coffee, our new Queenstown-based supplier.
Ryder is a boutique roastery known for its small-batch approach, ethical sourcing and genuine craftsmanship. Their passion for quality and commitment to sustainability made them a natural fit for Millbrook.
This exclusive blend has been created with our guests in mind. Smooth, rich and beautifully balanced, the Ryder Millbrook Blend is designed to suit a range of palates.
You will now find Ryder coffee served throughout the resort, including the Hole in One Café, our Coffee Caravan and the Clubhouse. Wherever you choose to begin your day, a considered, quality coffee experience awaits.
Meet Ryder’s roaster: Sammy
Ryder began not as a business plan, but as a shared passion. Sammy, Ryder’s co-founder and Master Roaster, first floated the idea over a coffee catch-up with long-time friend Wes. “I mentioned my dream of opening a coffee roastery… and the rest is kind of history,” he says. That conversation sparked what would become Ryder Specialty Coffee, officially launched in August 2023 and proudly roasting in Queenstown ever since.
Their values are clear: exceptional coffee, crafted sustainably, with full transparency from bean to cup. Ryder is home to New Zealand’s first commercial electric roaster — a decision that significantly reduces emissions while offering precise control over every roast.
Sammy’s favourite part of the process is creating new blends from scratch. “With the Millbrook Blend, we wanted it to feel elegant, smooth and quietly complex. After rounds of testing and tasting, we landed on something that just worked.”
More than just flavour
Ryder takes a thoughtful approach to sourcing. Every bean is selected for its character and quality, as well as the story behind it. “We work with importers who have strong relationships with producers,” Sammy explains. “People who are paid fairly, who care for their land, and who are committed to better practices in growing, processing and community impact.”
For Ryder, great coffee is not just about taste. It is about relationships, respect and doing things the right way.
We are proud to support this local business and look forward to sharing their story — and their coffee — with our guests.
Here’s to fresh mornings and exceptional coffee.
