Amanda and Andrew Sharpe, the owners of the Common

Andrew and Amanda fell into cafe life because they love renovating… The property came up for sale in 2021 and they purchased it with four long time friends. It is a substantial block of land that includes a turn-of-the-century weatherboard cottage and Akaroa’s first Presbyterian church. Built in 1860, the church’s life as a place of worship was short-lived. Instead of renting out the old cafe, Amanda & Andrew decided they wanted to give it ago.

They thought of the best things from their favourite cafes they have loved over the years and pulled it all together to create the delightful atmosphere of The Common