For more than 30 years, Deb Riach and her husband Ian have been shaping New Zealand’s coffee culture. They have built and led several iconic coffee brands, including Coffee Culture, Yellow Rocket, Coffee Worx, and Heartland Brew.
Each business venture reflects Deb’s belief that coffee is more than a product. It is a way to connect people, start conversations, and build community. Her career in the coffee industry has helped shape how Kiwis enjoy their favourite brews at home, at work, and in cafés across the country.
From Café Culture to Coffee Legacy
Deb’s journey in the coffee industry started back in the 1990s when she was one of the co-founders of Coffee Culture, in Christchurch. She helped create and grow one of the country’s earliest café brands. That experience sparked a lifelong passion for building coffee businesses that connect with people.
After leaving Coffee Culture, Deb and Ian launched their Yellow Rocket chain of cafés. These were local favourites that grew across Christchurch until the Canterbury earthquakes struck. After the destruction of all their cafés, they chose not to walk away. Instead, they used that challenge to rebuild and reimagine their future, giving rise to their latest business, Coffee Worx.
The Rise of Coffee Worx
Coffee Worx is a South Island coffee roastery and café business serving wholesale and retail customers across New Zealand. From its flagship café in Rangiora to its espresso bar and distribution centre in Christchurch, the business has grown into a respected national brand.
In addition to Coffee Worx, Deb also created Heartland Brew, a supermarket and online coffee brand that celebrates Kiwi character and local pride. It brings café-level quality to home coffee drinkers with a real focus on authenticity and accessibility.
Today, Coffee Worx and Heartland Brew roasts around 2.5-3 tonnes of coffee each week for distribution throughout cafés, workplaces, and households nationwide.
Why We Wanted to Feature Deb
Deb is a founder, mentor, and creative leader who has shaped how New Zealand experiences coffee. She has created and led some of the country’s most recognisable coffee brands. Each reflects her ability to spot opportunity, build strong brands, and create experiences that connect with everyday New Zealanders.
On a personal level, we find Deb’s story inspirational. It reminds us of what resilience looks like in practice. She has successfully turned adversity into opportunity following the earthquakes. From small beginnings, she has created lasting, beloved national brands.
How You Can Support Deb
You can support Deb and her team by choosing to buy local and share their story.
- Visit the Coffee Worx Café at 13 Ashley Street, Rangiora
- Order Heartland Brew online at www.heartlandbrew.co.nz
- Follow Coffee Worx on Facebook to stay connected
Every cup you enjoy helps a Canterbury-grown business continue to grow and keeps Deb’s vision of connection and community alive.