Switch Espresso Roastery

Switch Espresso Roastery: Heart of Christchurch’s Specialty Coffee Scene

Step into Switch Espresso Roastery and you’ll feel the pulse of Christchurch’s specialty coffee culture. Founded by Hamish Evans—a long-standing figure in the city’s café scene—Switch Espresso began its journey in New Brighton, 2006, and now thrives in a boutique roastery on Birmingham Drive. What sets Switch apart is a fierce dedication to ethical sourcing, forging direct and transparent relationships with farmer collectives worldwide. The team—described as family—channels this ethos into every roast, delivering award-winning blends and single origins with a signature Kiwi twist. Their commitment is evident not just in their beans, but in the modern training space where rising baristas hone their craft under expert guidance.

Switch’s coffee portfolio is genuinely impressive: from rich, balanced blends like the celebrated Valvet, to vibrant single origins and decafs, all roasted fresh to order. Their dedication to sustainability and quality has earned them a loyal following and recognition as an award-winning roaster. Black Betty, their flagship café, is renowned locally for both its coffee and inviting food menu—making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true Christchurch coffee experience. For the best taste of their craft, try a hand-poured filter, and don’t miss their fresh pastries or signature brunch plates. Switch Espresso is more than a roastery—it’s a vibrant hub where community, craft, and coffee converge.