We bake in small batches to guarantee freshness and flavour, without relying on preservatives. Using premium ingredients and time-honoured French pastry techniques, we craft fresh, hand-made bread, pies, cakes and pastries in our Ilam bakery 6 days a week .

Meet the Team

  • 1999

    WHERE IT STARTED
    For more than 20+ years, The Village Bakehouse has been a little slice of France in Christchurch, thanks to the passion and skill of founder Thierry Didierjean. Trained in the art of baking in France and Europe before moving to New Zealand, Thierry brought with him the traditions, flavours, and craftsmanship that have made this bakery so loved since it first opened in 1999.

  • 2024

    NEW BEGINNINGS
    Fast forward to 2024, and new owners Jason & Rosalie Hugo have taken the reins. While you’ll still find the same traditional recipes you know and love, they’re excited to add some fresh new menu items to try. With a refreshed look across both the Ilam and new Ohoka store, the Village Bakehouse is growing — but their commitment to quality, care, and time-honoured baking remains the same.