Shelly Bay Baker – Wellington’s Artisan Sourdough Pioneer

Overview

One of Wellington’s most beloved artisan bakeries, Shelly Bay Baker has built a reputation for producing exceptional sourdough breads, bagels, baguettes, pastries, and specialty baked goods using traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Founded by chef-turned-baker Sam Forbes in 2017, the bakery began in Shelly Bay before expanding to a purpose-built facility in Miramar that includes a bakery, flour mill, café, and retail shop. (Shelly Bay Baker)

A Passion for “Real. Good. Bread.”

The philosophy behind Shelly Bay Baker is simple: create nutritious, flavourful bread using natural ingredients and traditional fermentation methods. Every loaf is crafted using natural levains (wild sourdough starters) rather than commercial additives, resulting in bread with rich flavour, improved digestibility, and excellent texture. Founder Sam Forbes believes that bread should be made from real ingredients and celebrate the quality of New Zealand-grown grains. (Shelly Bay Baker)

Fresh Stone-Ground Flour

A defining feature of the bakery is its commitment to milling flour in-house. Using organic New Zealand grains, Shelly Bay Baker produces fresh stone-ground flour through its own milling operation. This process preserves flavour, aroma, and nutritional value while giving the bakery’s breads their distinctive character. The freshly milled flour is also available for customers to purchase. (Shelly Bay Baker)

Signature Breads & Baked Goods

The bakery is particularly renowned for its artisan sourdough range, which includes:

• Country sourdough loaves

• Rye and multigrain breads

• Traditional baguettes

• Freshly baked bagels

• Brioche buns

• Focaccia

• Seasonal fruit loaves

• Croissants and pastries

Long fermentation times and careful craftsmanship ensure each product develops deep flavour and a satisfying texture. (Shelly Bay Baker)

Café & Bakery Experience

Visitors can enjoy much more than bread at the Miramar bakery. The welcoming café serves freshly brewed coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and daily baked treats alongside shelves stacked with warm loaves straight from the ovens. The bakery shop also stocks local products such as honey, milk, avocados, and specialty grocery items, creating a true neighbourhood food hub. (Shelly Bay Baker)

Community Favourite

Shelly Bay Baker has become a Wellington institution thanks to its dedication to quality and consistency. Food guides regularly rank it among the city’s top destinations for sourdough, while customers frequently praise its organic flour, artisan techniques, and friendly atmosphere. The bakery’s success has led to expansion beyond Miramar, including additional locations serving central Wellington communities. (foodguide.nz)

Markets & Local Connections

Beyond its bakery locations, Shelly Bay Baker maintains strong connections with local communities through regular appearances at Wellington farmers’ markets. Visitors can find its breads and baked goods at markets including Newtown Farmers’ Market and Harbourside Market, making its products accessible throughout the region. (Shelly Bay Baker)

Why Visit?

Whether you're searching for authentic sourdough, freshly milled organic flour, buttery pastries, artisan bagels, or simply one of Wellington’s best bakery experiences, Shelly Bay Baker delivers outstanding quality rooted in craftsmanship and sustainability. It offers visitors a genuine taste of New Zealand’s thriving artisan food culture and is a must-visit stop for bread lovers exploring Wellington. (Shelly Bay Baker)

Location

📍 Shelly Bay Baker – Miramar, Wellington, New Zealand.

Official Website: Shelly Bay Baker