"Camina: Spanish for 'walk' or 'wending one's way.' Always in a perpetual state of becoming, our restaurant embodies action over a static name – a nod to the ever-evolving journey we're on.

In our 20s, Barend lived in kitchens around the world, learning, growing, and refining his skills as a chef. At the same time, Rowan lived in vans and tour buses, following his musical passion to both play in and manage bands touring the world.

Knowing that this way of life is not sustainable for family life, we both decided to make Aotearoa our permanent home.

From Barend working at Scotts Epicurean in Hamilton to co-founding Port Road Project in Whangamatā with his wife, Emily, and friend, Jason Scott. Seven years on, a chance came up for him to fulfil his dream of opening a restaurant.

Rowan, after time in the investment world at Pie Funds in Auckland, moved to Whangamatā with his wife, Jessica, to raise their young family. After a few years building houses and renovating his own, he'd meet Barend at the café and in the surf.

Our friendship became conversations about life and the meaning we give it. Surfing together, sharing music and art that inspires us. A shared love of culture and pushing it forward, the idea for Camina was born.

Eager to meet all who come through our doors, to share meals and exchange tales of the past and dreams of the future. Our love for this town and its people resonates, akin to a Camino De Santiago restaurant that provides respite for weary travellers—an evening's rest on your Camina."