Jason Moore, founder of Vanguard, is a seasoned coffee professional with over 20 years in the industry. A multi-time national Barista Champs finalist, NZSCA board member, and competition circuit regular, he’s committed to driving coffee forward with integrity and innovation.

Beyond the roastery, he consults for cafés and coffee professionals, elevating quality and sustainability. Originally from Wellington, Jason values simplicity - good food, good company, and meaningful conversation. A strong advocate for transparency, he believes quality should never come at the cost of ethics, ensuring fairness across the entire supply chain

Kylie is the glue that holds everything together—the real boss behind the scenes. A Kiwi-Aussie with a creative background, she has a passion for filling spaces with art and light. Whether it's fine-tuning logistics or making sure everything runs smoothly, she’s the one keeping the wheels turning at Vanguard.
Her day starts with that first, peaceful filter coffee while the world is still asleep—a moment of calm before diving into the chaos. She’s a logistical whizz, an avid avocado enthusiast, and the steady backbone of the team. If something needs doing, Kylie’s probably already done it.

Wayne is a dog of many moods- sometimes enthusiastic and welcoming, other times take-it-or-leave-it, much like the rest of us before our morning brew.
When he’s not ‘charming’ his customers, Wayne enjoys long walks on the beach, scavenging for his favourite food: leftovers and channelling his inner Dobby from Harry Potter. Loyal, lovable, and always on duty, he’s the true MVP of the team

Luke is a family man, a dog lover, and a coffee enthusiast who fell in love with the craft 12 years ago. With an architecture background and a keen eye for design, he’s all about finding artistic details in everyday life.
Born in Dunedin, Luke brings a design-focused approach to coffee, always looking for ways to push boundaries. He’s been a dedicated volunteer for the
NZ Barista Championship and has even stepped into the competition ring himself as a competitor in 2025. He’s got a soft spot for Rwandan coffee, loves Bananas, and is always ready to push himself to the next level.

Jordan lives and breathes coffee. A latte art extraordinaire and NZBC competitor 24/25, he’s been making coffee since he was 15, practically growing up in the hospo industry. He loves a good, milky brew and thrives in the fast-paced café world.
Off the clock, he’s all about his wheels—skateboard or his Toyota Levin ( Bogan). And because he’s always up for a challenge, if he’s not trying to pour a seahorse on a latte, he’s learning the accordion. Fresh talent, serious skills, and a love of Pasta.

Jess is a force of nature - the café manager with a love for lists and a whirlwind of chaotic energy. Loud, caring, and endlessly persistent, she’s the firecracker that keeps everything (and everyone) moving.
Whether she’s managing the floor, juggling a million tasks, or making sure every cup is perfect, she does it all with unstoppable determination.
Her favourite food? It’s a hefty sausage to keep her going.
Jess might be Queen Chaos, but she’s also the heart of the café - keeping the team fired up and the coffee flowing

Leeann is our 2IC and the heart and soul of the team - a kind and nurturing presence with a gentle, positive energy that never wavers. Ever calm and endlessly supportive, she’s the go-to person for new team members finding their feet. Whether it’s offering guidance, a reassuring smile, or just the right words of encouragement, she makes everyone feel at home.
A whiz with rosters and a magician with indoor plants, she keeps both schedules
and greenery thriving.