photo by James Mazey

Fuel to Fly has raised the bar for airport coffee, unveiling an elegant Modbar installation that brings a new level of design and performance to the Dunedin Airport terminal.

The Setup

  • 3 Modbar Espresso AV Taps
  • 2 Modbar Steam Taps

From first glance, the polished chrome taps read almost sculptural, almost as if they were liquid metal emerging seamlessly from the stainless-steel bench. The effect is immediate: guests are drawn in, and the barista’s craft becomes the focal point rather than hidden behind machinery.

Craig Macfarlane (Maca), Project Director West End Hospitality Group, selected Modbar to create a point of visual and operational difference that matched coffee supplier, Ozone Coffee’s commitment to quality and hospitality. For a busy site serving decerning travellers on the move, consistency, speed, and an elevated service flow were essential, and Modbar delivers on all fronts.

James Mazey, Ozone’s Business Development Manager, worked closely with the Fuel to Fly team throughout the project, witnessing firsthand how Modbar could transform the airport coffee experience.

“Right from the beginning stages of this project, we knew Modbar would offer travellers not only an elevated experience aesthetically but also deliver exceptional quality in the cup too. The taps instantly spark conversation, and the connection between barista and customer becomes intertwined,” James explains.

photo by James Mazey

A Better Way to Serve

With equipment tucked discretely beneath the counter, the bar becomes an open stage for the baristas. There’s nothing interrupting the line of sight or blocking engagement. Instead, customers experience genuine connection, transparency, and a front-row seat to the craft happening in front of them.

It’s a setup designed to enhance workflow while amplifying the human side of hospitality, something that resonates deeply in a busy airport environment.

Fuel to Fly now joins a small group in the South Island operating a full Modbar under-counter espresso system, setting a new benchmark for design-forward cafés.

photo by James Mazey

End-to-End La Marzocco Support

A Modbar installation is about more than just equipment, it’s a collaboration. La Marzocco worked closely with the Fuel to Fly and Ozone teams months in advance, mapping out bench requirements, workflow considerations, and technical details to ensure a seamless fit within the new site.

Our experienced technical team travelled to Dunedin to complete the install to La Marzocco’s highest standard, ensuring the system performed perfectly from day one.

photo by James Mazey
photo by James Mazey

Thinking about Modbar for your own space?

Whether you’re designing a new café, reimagining an existing bar, or looking for a way to elevate customer experience, our team can guide you through the process from planning to installation. Get in touch with our team to find out more about adding Modbar to your space.