GOOD TO KNOW

Before you visit.

Answers about bookings, visits and spending time with the cats.

Why is there a break between the afternoon and evening sessions?

Some days have a short break between afternoon and evening sessions. This gives our cats uninterrupted rest and our team time to clean the lounge. Check the opening-hours table and booking calendar for your visit date: Fri–Sun: 16:00–17:00 This is separate from the cats' usual 2–4 pm naps, when booked visits continue as normal.

Should I book ahead, and do I need to pay online?

Booking ahead is the best way to secure your preferred time, especially on weekends and during school holidays. There's nothing to pay online — pay for admission when you arrive. Walk-ins are welcome if space is available.

How will I know my booking is confirmed?

After booking, you'll see your reference and confirmation details on screen. Save the reference: you can use it to look up most bookings without an email code. If you have an older short reference, use the private management link in your confirmation email or the email recovery option.

How long is a visit, and when should I arrive?

Standard admission is 50 minutes. Please arrive about 10 minutes before your session so there's time to check in and hear our cat-care guidelines.

What if I'm running late?

Contact us as soon as possible if you're running late. If you arrive more than five minutes after your session starts, we may release your places to other guests.

Can I change or cancel my booking?

Please make any changes or cancellations at least 3 hours before your session. You can look up your booking by reference alone, without an email or code. Extra guests and changes to fully booked times depend on availability.

My preferred session is full. What can I do?

Try another time, or join the waitlist if it's available. Joining the waitlist does not reserve a place; please wait for our team's confirmation before coming in.

What does admission cost?

Standard admission is NZ$25 for ages 14 and over, or NZ$20 for children under 14. Every ticket includes one drink of your choice from the current menu. Pay at the café; a public holiday surcharge applies on eligible dates.

Is there a public holiday surcharge?

Yes. A 15% surcharge applies on Auckland public holidays and observed dates. Our booking calendar shows the adjusted estimate before you confirm.

Do babies and toddlers need tickets?

Our published child rate is for visitors under 14. Please count everyone in your group, and contact us before booking if you're bringing an infant or pram so we can confirm arrangements and any applicable charges.

Do support workers or carers need a ticket?

Anyone entering the upstairs cat lounge, including carers and support people, is normally counted as a guest under our current admission policy. If you need particular support, please contact us before visiting.

Can I use a voucher or complimentary ticket?

You can enter a Catfé Māo digital gift ticket code when booking or managing a visit. Confirm the ticket type and quantity before using it. For other vouchers or complimentary tickets, contact our team to check the conditions.

Where are you located?

We're at 240 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland. Maggie Bakery is on the ground floor, and Catfé Māo is upstairs. Please use this address rather than our former café location at 80 Broadway.

Where can I park?

There are public car parks and paid on-street spaces around Newmarket. Please check local signs and parking charges. A café booking does not include reserved parking.

What if I have mobility or sensory needs?

The café has everyday background noise and lighting, and the cat lounge is reached by stairs. Please get in touch before booking to discuss your needs and what the current space can accommodate.

Can I eat cake in the cat lounge?

Cake and other food are for the ground-floor Maggie Bakery seating area, not the upstairs cat lounge. Drinks may generally be taken upstairs; please follow staff guidance when placing them around the cats.

Can I bring my own food or birthday cake?

We generally don't allow outside food or cakes. Maggie Bakery downstairs offers cakes and desserts. For an event or a particular dietary need, please speak to us in advance.

Can I go downstairs for cake during my visit?

We recommend enjoying cake before or after your cat-lounge session. Your booked time is intended as one uninterrupted visit, rather than repeated trips between floors.

What should I do if I have a food allergy?

Tell the Maggie Bakery team about any allergies before ordering, including concerns about milk or plant-based alternatives. Shared preparation areas may mean allergen cross-contact is possible, so please ask about ingredients and handling.

Can we book a birthday or group visit?

You're welcome to enquire about birthdays and group visits. Numbers vary by session to protect the cats. Please send us your preferred date and time, total guest count (including adults), and any requests. The booking is confirmed only when our team says so.

Do you offer private sessions or birthday packages?

Please contact us to discuss private visits or celebrations. Pricing, session length, decoration guidelines, food arrangements and available times may vary. Confirm the details with our team before making plans.

Can we have cake after our cat-lounge session?

Yes — Maggie Bakery is downstairs. We recommend enjoying cake before or after your time with the cats. Please arrange custom cakes or group seating in advance.

How does the waitlist work?

If a session is full, you can join its waitlist until four hours before it starts. This does not reserve a place. If space becomes available before the cutoff, our team may contact you to confirm a booking. Do not come in based on a waitlist request alone.

Does joining the waitlist guarantee a place?

No. An opening depends on cancellations, group size, timing and the cats' wellbeing. We can't promise that a place will become available or that everyone on the list will be accommodated.

Do I need to pay to join the waitlist?

No. Joining the waitlist is free. If your booking is later confirmed, you'll pay for admission at the café when you visit.

Can I book for more than 10 people?

You can book up to 10 people in one online reservation. For larger groups or private events, contact our team first so we can check capacity and suitable session times.

Which cakes are included with the Couple and Family Combos?

Each combo includes one eligible cake slice from Maggie Bakery, subject to availability on the day. Durian Crepe, Soy Milk Taro Mochi, Tiramisu and Basque Cheesecake are not included and are sold separately.

How should I say hello to a cat?

Approach slowly and speak softly. Let the cat come to you and sniff your hand, then offer gentle pats if they seem comfortable. If they move away or hide, give them space. Our team can introduce you to each cat and their preferences.

Can I pick up a cat?

Please ask a staff member before picking up a cat. Only hold a cat if our team confirms the cat is comfortable and shows you how. Never force a cat to be held or restrict their movement. Stop straight away if the cat struggles, moves away or shows discomfort.

What if the cats are sleeping during my visit?

Our cats often nap around 2–4 pm. Visits continue as usual, but there may be less play during those hours. Please let sleeping cats rest. The team can help you get to know any cats who are awake and interested in company.

When are the cats most likely to be active?

Activity varies from cat to cat and from day to day. Many of our cats nap around 2–4 pm. You’re still welcome to visit then, though the lounge may be quieter. At any time of day, let the cats choose whether to play, rest or come over for company.

Can I give the cats treats?

Please check with the team first and use only treats they provide or approve. We plan portions around each cat’s meals and care needs, so treats may not be available at every session. Please keep your own food and treats away from the cats.

How should I use a wand toy?

Move the toy gently near the ground, pause while the cat watches, and let them catch it from time to time. Keep toys away from cats who are sleeping or hiding, and pause if play becomes too intense. Our team is happy to show you how.

What should I do if a cat hisses or cats start arguing?

Step back and tell a staff member. Please keep your hands away, avoid picking either cat up, and let the team handle the situation. Giving the cats some space helps keep everyone safe.

Will I get cat hair on my clothes?

You may find a little cat hair on your clothes after a visit. We groom the cats and clean regularly, but some shedding is part of sharing a space with them. Ask the team if you need help tidying up before you leave.

Do you use fragrances in the cat lounge?

We avoid strong fragrances in the cats’ living space and focus on regular cleaning. If you notice an area that needs attention, please let the team know so we can check it.

Why do some toys and blankets look well used?

Some cats have a favourite toy or blanket that they like to keep close. We clean these regularly and replace them when needed, while keeping safe favourites where possible. Please tell the team if you notice anything damaged or in need of cleaning.

A cat seems unwell. Should I tell the team?

Yes, please tell us what you have noticed, such as a change in their movement, behaviour or appearance. Our team can check on the cat and arrange veterinary advice when needed.

What if I am scratched, bitten or have an allergic reaction?

Tell a staff member straight away so we can help. Cat allergens are present in the lounge, so please consider any known allergies before booking. Seek medical care for an injury or reaction when needed.

Is the cat lounge wheelchair accessible?

The cat lounge is upstairs and can only be reached by stairs; there is no lift. Maggie Bakery is on the ground floor. Please contact us before booking if you would like to discuss access.

Can children visit the cats?

Yes. Children under 14 must be accompanied and supervised throughout their visit by a paying adult. Please help children speak softly, interact gently and avoid running. For a larger children’s group, contact us in advance to discuss supervision.

How do I apply to adopt a cat?

Choose a cat whose current profile says applications are open, read their story and complete the questionnaire. We will review the match and contact you about the next steps. After approval, we arrange the agreement, adoption fee and collection with you.

How long does an adoption application take?

Please allow up to three weeks for review. This gives us time to understand your household and the cat’s needs. Keep an eye on your messages, and contact the team if you would like an update.

What is the adoption fee?

Our adoption guide lists NZ$200 for male cats and NZ$300 for female cats, including desexing, vaccinations and a basic health check. Before you sign the agreement, the team will confirm the fee and explain the cat’s care and veterinary records.

Why are some cats not available for adoption?

Each cat has different needs. We consider their health, age, confidence and personality, as well as the care a new home can provide. Some cats stay with us long term; others need more time before they are ready for adoption.

Why is the adoption questionnaire detailed?

Learning about your household, routine and experience helps us understand whether you and the cat are a good match. Please answer openly and include the details that will help us plan for the cat’s care.

Can I bring a cat that needs rescuing to the café?

Please email catfe.mao@gmail.com first. What we can offer depends on space, the cat’s health and care needs, and the cats already with us. Please wait for an agreed arrangement before bringing or leaving a cat at the café.

Do all the cats in the story collection still live at the café?

Our stories include both current residents and cats who have found homes. Check each cat’s current profile for their status. If you are interested in adoption, use the current adoption page to see which cats are accepting applications.

Can I choose any menu drink with my ticket?

Yes. Each ticket includes one complimentary drink of your choice from the current menu, with no price limit. Tell the team about any allergies or dietary needs before ordering. Additional drinks are charged separately.

Can I order my drink downstairs or after my visit?

Yes. You can order downstairs before your session or save your included drink until afterwards. Let the team know who has already ordered and who would like to order later. Everyone in your group can choose their own timing.

Can I take a cat home after meeting them?

All adoptions go through our application and approval process. If you meet a cat you would like to adopt, check whether applications are open and talk to our team about the next steps.

Can I bring my own cat or dog?

Maggie Bakery on the ground floor is pet-friendly. Cats and dogs must be kept on a leash and under control, or secured inside a suitable pet bag or carrier. The upstairs cat lounge is home to our resident cats, so visitors cannot bring their own pets upstairs, even in a carrier.

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