Our Story
Built From Curiosity, Roasted With Intention
It all started in a shed with a homemade roaster, two sieves, and a gas cooker. Dave- science lover and long-time coffee tinkerer- wanted to see if he could roast his own beans from scratch. Spoiler: he could. The first batch wasn’t perfect, but it sparked something. What began as a backyard experiment quickly turned into a deep obsession with the art and science of roasting. Fast forward a few years (and a few upgraded roasters), and today, we still roast every bean with the same passion and intention - right here from our little shed in Matatā.
Who We Are
At the heart of Prana are Jess and Dave, partners in life and in purpose. Jess is a seasoned wellness practitioner, yoga/ pilates teacher, massage therapist, and founder of In Tune Studio. She brings a grounded, heart-led approach to everything she does- guided by a deep love of rhythm, movement, and nourishing food. Dave, with a background in chemistry and a fresh qualification as a yoga instructor, brings curiosity, a hands-on attitude, and a practical, technical lens to their shared vision.
Together, they created Prana to reflect how they live: intentionally, creatively, and close to nature.
Prana -Sanskrit for life force- represents the breath that animates us. To us, it’s the beauty in simplicity, the ritual of a slow morning, and the quiet joy of making something with care.
What Matters to Us
Our beans are always organic, always fresh, and always roasted with intention. We source from small-scale farms in Peru and Central/South America - beans grown at altitude, harvested with care, and chosen for both their flavour and their ethics. We believe in fair treatment for farmers, sustainable practices, and keeping harmful chemicals out of your daily brew.
We roast in small batches on our 2kg North Roaster, still tucked in the shed behind our home. Every roast is hands-on, carefully dialled in, and taste-tested (frequently). It’s coffee with a conscience - made slowly, mindfully, and with love, right here in Matatā.
matata roast
Balanced, rich, and easy-drinking.
Our medium roast hits the sweet spot - smooth and full-bodied, without going too dark. Enjoy aromas of roasted almonds, dark chocolate, and subtle citrus, with rounded flavours of poached red apples and caramelised notes. Low acidity with a rich, velvety mouthfeel.
Flavour Notes: Dark chocolate, caramel, scorched almonds, red apple
Body: Medium & coating
Acidity: Low
Origin: Organic Arabica beans grown at high altitude
Pikowai roast
Bright, smooth, and full of character.
Our lightest roast, crafted to bring out the more delicate origin notes of the beans. Expect gentle aromas of roasted almonds, dark chocolate, and citrus. Flavours of poached red apples and mulled wine stand out with a soft, coating body and light, refreshing acidity.
Flavour Notes: Roasted almonds, red apple, mulled wine, dark chocolate
Body: Light & smooth
Acidity: Gentle brightness
Origin: Organic Arabica beans grown at high altitude
TUI roast
Bold, full-bodied, and smooth.
Our darkest roast - slow-roasted for depth and intensity while staying smooth and drinkable. Deep aromas of scorched almonds, burnt caramel, and dark chocolate, with rich flavours of mulled wine and toasted nuts. Full-bodied and low acidity for a bold yet balanced cup.
Flavour Notes: Burnt caramel, dark chocolate, scorched almonds, mulled wine
Body: Full & smooth
Acidity: Low
Origin: Organic Arabica beans grown at high altitude
DECAF
The same depth, none of the buzz. Our Decaf Roast is crafted with care using the 100% chemical-free Swiss Water® Process, preserving flavour without compromise.
Flavour notes: Smooth chocolate, toasted almond, subtle fruit
Body: Medium & rounded
Acidity: Low
Process: Swiss Water®
Origin: Organic Arabica beans
A calming cup that still honours the ritual. Ideal for late afternoons, slow evenings, or anyone looking to skip the caffeine while still savouring great coffee.