What started in a Hamilton garage with two mates and a whole lot of hustle has grown into one of Aotearoa’s most loved artisan bakeries and it all began right here at Hillcrest High School!
Former students Ed Hemming and Ryan Simmons, the co-founders of Volare, have built something truly special. From those early days of baking through the night and delivering by dawn, to now leading a team producing world-class breads and pastries, their story is a real celebration of Kiwi ingenuity, hard work, and Waikato heart.
Sixteen years on, they’re still hands-on every day, caring deeply about their craft, their people, and their customers. Their journey is proof that with passion, perseverance, and great mateship, amazing things can rise (quite literally!).
Volare also took out the People’s Choice Award, at the Waikato CHamber of COmmerce Business Awards last week, a reflection of their hard work and commitment to the community.
We’re incredibly proud of our Hillcrest alumni and encourage our community to support local, pop into Volare, grab a loaf or a pastry, and taste the result of years of dedication and love for what they do.
