I had to run a quick errand today, and on the way, I thought, “I deserve a coffee.” I only slept three hours last night—classic mum life. I’m vegan, so I go for oat milk, and since I sometimes get anxious or short of breath, I stick to decaf. I ordered my usual and nearly dropped the cup when I saw the price: $8.9. For one coffee?
There’s always an extra charge for oat milk and decaf, which I don’t totally get—decaf costs the same as regular coffee at the supermarket. I hadn’t had coffee in almost two years. I tried switching to tea and chai lattes, but it just wasn’t the same. I missed the taste, the comfort, the ritual. I told myself I’d have it once a week. Then twice. Before I knew it, I was hooked again.
Coffee is an addiction, no sugar-coating it. When I quit, I had headaches for over a week. But I stayed off it for two whole years. Still, I love everything about it—the smell, the warmth, the slow moment of joy when you sit down with a cup and a book or a sweet treat.
But the price? It shocked me. I remember when coffee was $5–6. Now it’s pushing $9, and my salary hasn’t magically increased to match. I’m not saying I want it every day, but I don’t want to feel guilty for treating myself once in a while.
When I first moved to New Zealand, you could get a decent meal for $10–12. Some places still offer that, but it’s rare. I know coffee is part of the culture here—an experience, even a little luxury. I just wanted to share how I feel.
Mini Poll: What’s Your Coffee Limit?
- I’ll pay anything for my perfect cup
- $5–6 feels fair
- $7+ is pushing it
- I make mine at home, thanks
Let’s talk coffee
Do you buy coffee out or make it at home? What’s your style—instant, barista-style, filtered, moka pot magic? And what’s your personal coffee limit before the guilt kicks in? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how you balance comfort and cost.
Image by Michaela 💗 from Pixabay
