Our Best Coffee Machines in New Zealand
If there’s one kitchen appliance you need to start your day on the right note, it’s a good quality coffee machine. But not all coffee machines are created equal — and not all machines will be the right match for your tastes as a coffee drinker.
From simple, easy-to-use capsule coffee machines to complicated, barista-style models and even fully-automated options, there are a variety of coffee machines available today. Before investing in a new appliance, it’s important to consider what is the right option for you. How are you looking to start your morning? How fancy do you want to get with your coffee?
Each model will have its advantages and disadvantages that you should weigh carefully. As a coffee lover, you have the best sense of what you like or don’t like — and you need to stick to that. In this article, we’ll try to give you an idea of some of the best coffee machines available today, so you can assess for yourself and decide what will satisfy your caffeine needs.
Learn more about the different types of coffee machines and what products to consider below.
In this article, we’ll cover these topics: |
We’ll also review these products: |
|
What types of coffee machines are available?
|
Nespresso Breville Essenza Mini Nespresso CitiZ&Milk Coffee Machine Nespresso Creatista Pro Coffee Machine Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine Delonghi La Specialista Arte Pump Coffee Machine |
What types of coffee machines are available?
There are three general types of coffee machines available on the market today: capsule or pod coffee machines, manual or semi-automatic machines, and fully automatic machines. Each types offers its own pros and cons, depending on how you like to make your coffee.
Capsule / Pod Coffee Machines
Capsule coffee machines or pod coffee machines are the newest innovation in the coffee-making world. These machines offer the ultimate in convenience for morning coffee lovers who are on the go or pressed for time.
Each brand of machine offers its own line of hermetically-sealed coffee pods or capsules, which are loaded into the machine instead of coffee grounds. Then, with the pull of a lever or press of a button, the machine mixes the contents of the capsules with hot water to deliver a delicious beverage start to your day.
While pod or capsule coffee machines are quick and easy to use, you are limited to the options available. Capsules or pods come in a range of flavours, depending on the brand of machine, but you can’t alter your drink beyond that. Some models do have their own steam wands.
These types of machines tend to be more compact and affordable than others types of machines, which is one advantage for people with limited kitchen space or on a budget.
Semi-Automatic or Manual Coffee Machines
Semi-automatic or manual coffee machines are a great option for the hobbyist barista, who want a higher degree of control over their coffee-making process.
Most manual machines are more accurately referred to as ‘semi-automatic’, since they usually include some automatic features like a steam wand and water flow control. Typically, what defines a manual coffee machine is the ability to manually grind your coffee beans, tamp your grounds, and pull the shot yourself.
Manual and semi-automatic machines allow you to make your coffee like a barista, controlling the strength, temperature, and consistency of what you’re making. The tradeoff is that they require a certain amount of skill to use.
It may take some time to get familiar with how these models work and learn how to brew your coffee just the way that you like. It can also be more time consuming to clean portafilters, filter baskets, and other components.
Fully Automatic Coffee Machines
Fully automatic coffee machines will take care of everything that a barista normally does — from grinding the beans to tamping the grounds to pulling the shot. Your morning cup is completely taken care of.
Despite automating the most difficult parts of the coffee-making process, these types of machines still allow a degree of customization and include digital settings for temperature, pressure, grinding, milk texturing, and more. Considered one of the easiest types of coffee machines to use, you don’t need to be an expert to get the most out of a fully automatic model.
Some coffee purists still consider manual machines to provide a better taste than automatic — especially in the hands of a skilled barista — but there’s no doubt that automatic machines do an excellent job. While some models come at a higher price point, the choice between the two is usually a matter of preference.
What to consider when buying a coffee machine?
When you’re looking to buy a coffee machine, there are a few factors to consider. Keep these key things in mind when shopping online or in-store.
Quality of taste
There’s no question — good flavour is an essential part of the coffee experience.
If you’re a coffee purist and you want your morning coffee a certain way, you need a model that delivers. That might mean a barista-style manual coffee machine with complete control of the coffee-making. Or it might mean a signature brand of capsule you’re used to drinking.
If you’re open to trying out new things (or if taste is secondary to that morning caffeine hit), there are a wider range of options available. Wherever you fall in the taste spectrum, you’ll want to consider your own preferences when selecting a type of coffee machine and go from there.
Ease of use
When it comes to ease of use, there’s a huge difference between the various types of coffee machines. Capsule, pod, or fully-automatic machines are incredibly straightforward to use, while manual machines can have a much steeper learning curve.
If you’re the type of person who’s always in a rush in the mornings, there’s no question that you’ll want a coffee machine that prioritizes ease of use. Capsule or pod machines make it super easy to brew your coffee on the way out the door. Even fully-automatic machines can simplify the coffee-making process for busy families or working professionals.
Before you start shopping for a coffee machine, you should consider whether ease of use is important to you or not, as it’s likely to have a big impact on what you end up choosing.
Features & accessories
Our coffee machines are available in a range of matte and metallic colours to match the existing design of your kitchen. Yet the more important component of design is often the features and accessories available with each specific machine.
From manual grinders and portafilers to steam wands and milk frothers, these features and accessories can have a huge impact on what you’re able to do with your coffee machine. If you’re looking to make your coffee a specific way, make sure that your machine has the features and accessories to allow this.
Cleaning & maintenance
Another important factor to consider when choosing a coffee machine is cleanup and maintenance. Some coffee machines require a lot of regular cleaning, especially manual machines. For these, you’ll need to regularly wash the portafilter, steam wand or frother, and drip tray — you can learn more in our blog on how to clean your coffee machine.
On the other hand, capsule or pod coffee machines require relatively little cleaning. These machines will keep going for years with barely any mainteance. All you’ll have to do is wipe up the occasional spill. So keep this in mind when choosing whether you want to invest in a manual coffee machine or a capsule option instead.
Sustainability
Sustainability is a growing priority for people in New Zealand — and the same is true for Noel Leeming. When it comes to coffee machines, there are a few things to consider, including power consumption and waste.
One drawback of capsule and pod coffee machines is that the capsules produce much more packaging waste than othe models. So if environmental responsibility is important to you, you may want to consider a model with recycling options available, such as Nespresso.
Value
Coffee machines vary widely in cost, from pod machines that will cost a few hundred dollars to barista-style machines that land in the thousands. Perhaps your dream coffee machine is outside your budget — for now. Or maybe you’ll find an affordable alternative that’s just as good.
Whatever the case, at Noel Leeming we’re please to offer a variety of coffee machines to fit any budget. From affordable capsule models to premium manual and automatic options outfitted for the classiest barista, you can find it all. Check out our recommendations below or come back later to see the latest deals during our next sales event.
What is the best home coffee machine?
If you’re looking for the best home coffee machine, the answer will depend a lot on your own coffee preferences.
Want something easy to brew in the morning, while you’re on your way to work? A capsule or fully automatic machine will probably be your best option, such as the Nespresso CitiZ&Milk (for a basic option) or the Delonghi Primadonna Soul (for a deluxe choice).
Interesting in getting more creative with your coffee-making, or flexing your barista skills? Check out one of the manual machine options on this list below, like the Breville the Barista Express or the Delonghi La Specialista Arte Pump.
Regardless of your preferences, if you’re shopping for a coffee machine for your home, you may be looking for a compact option that will save on counter space. If that’s the case, we recommend some of the compact models like the Nespresso Essenza Mini (for a capsule machine) or the Delonghi Stilosa Pump (for a manual machine).
At the end of the day, whether you’re shopping for a machine for your home or your office, you’ll want to ask yourself the same questions. What am I looking for in terms of taste, ease of use, and other key factors? Do I have a specific budget that I have to work within?
From there, the information in this article will help you make the right decision for yourself and your family. If you have any questions, ask our specialists in-store for more details.
Which pod or capsule coffee machine is the best?
Nespresso Breville Essenza Mini Coffee Machine
Best Compact Capsule Coffee Machine
Pros |
Cons |
|
Compact design saves on counter space Affordable price point |
Limited coffee settings |
Type: Capsule - Colour/Material: Pure Black, Pure White - Dimensions: 11cm (W) x 32.5cm (D) x 20.5cm (H) - Power Consumption: 1150W - Water Tank Capacity: 0.6L - Weight: 2.3kg - Price: $379.99
Features:
- Includes Aeroccino3 milk frothing device
- Two programmable coffee settings: espresso and lungo
- Fast heat up time of 25 seconds
- Automatic power off mode after 9 minutes
- Removable water tank
- 19 bar pressure system
The Nespresso Breville Essenza Mini is the newest and smallest capsule coffee machine from the signature Nespresso line. If you’re already a fan of the Nespresso product, this coffee machine will be a great compact option to consider for saving counter space.
The Essenza Mini features a minimalist design in either black or white with settings for both espresso and lungo coffees. It takes the standard Nespresso pods, delivering high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee in infinitely-recyclable aluminium.
This model is bundled with the Aeroccino3 milk frothing device to add to your morning cup. A great choice for pod or capsule lovers who want a machine that’s simple, affordable, and easy to use each day.
Nespresso CitiZ&Milk Coffee Machine
Most Versatile Capsule Coffee Machine
Pros |
Cons |
|
Compact design saves on counter space Adjustable drip tray for taller glasses |
Limited coffee settings |
Type: Capsule - Colour/Material: Black - Dimensions: 21.9cm (W) x 27.8cm (D) x 37.2cm (H) - Power Consumption: 1710W - Water Tank Capacity: 1.0L - Weight: 4.05kg - Price: $549.99
Features:
- Aeroccino3 milk frothing device
- Two customizable programs for espresso and lungo
- Fast warm up time of 25 seconds
- Automatic power off mode after 9 minutes
- 19 bar pressure system
- Adjustable and foldable cup holder
The Nespresso CitiZ&Milk is a high-quality capsule coffee machine with a larger range of features to customise your morning cup. While offering the signature Nespresso coffee flavour, this model features additional options for customising your drink and an adjustable drip for taller glasses.
The CitiZ&Milk features a similar minimalist design to the Essenza Mini with a built-in Aerocinno3 milk frothing device. What distinguishes the CitiZ&Milk is its additional capacity and the more versatile brewing options available.
Great for capsule coffee lovers who like a larger coffee and want more control over their drink, the CitiZ&Milk is an upgraded alternative to the Essenze Mini. At the same, it still offers a compact option to save counter space in your kitchen.
Nespresso Creatista Pro Coffee Machine
Best Premium Capsule Coffee Machine
Pros |
Cons |
|
Barista-style control over your coffee Ease to use capsule technology |
High price point (for capsule machine) |
Type: Capsule - Colour/Material: Stainless Steel - Dimensions: 19.7cm (W) x 42.9cm (D) x 32.8cm (H) - Power Consumption: 2300W - Water Tank Capacity: 2.0L - Weight: 6.5kg - Price: $1,379.99
Features:
- Intuitive TFT touch screen display
- Dual Thermo JetTM heating system
- Fast heat up time of 3 seconds
- 8 pre-programmed and customizable coffee settings
- Adjustable coffee volume, milk temperature and texture settings
- Automatic microfoam milk texturing
- Dedicated hot water spout for long black
- Auto clean function
Accessories:
- Stainless steel milk jug
- Steam wand cleaning tool
The Nespresso Creatista Pro is a premium, barista-style capsule coffee machine. Designed with a stylish stainless steel finish, the Creatista Pro gives you the ability to create personalised café-quality coffees at home, using its intuitive touch screen display.
The Creatista Pro offers 8 preset drink settings with the ability to customize coffee volume, milk texture, and temperature to suit your preferences. It comes with a range of additional features and accessories, including a dedicated hot water spout for long blacks and a stainless steel milk jug for milk frothing. Everything you could want to customize your coffee — with the simplicity of pod and capsule technology.
If you want something above and beyond your standard capsule coffee machine, but you’re still looking to prioritize ease of use, the Creatista Pro is a great choice.
What is the best semi-automatic or manual coffee machine?
Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine
Best Tasting Manual Coffee Machine
Pros |
Cons |
|
Built-in conical burr grinder Range of features and accessories for barista-style brewing |
Difficult learning curve |
Type: Manual / Semi-Automatic - Colour/Material: Stainless Steel, Black Sesame - Dimensions: 31.3cm (W) x 42.9cm (D) x 33.8cm (H) - Power Consumption: 1850W - Water Tank Capacity: 2.0L - Weight: 12.5kg - Price: $999.99
Features:
- Digital PID adjustable temperature control
- Stainless steel Thermo coil heating system
- 15 bar Italian-made pump pressure
- 250g capacity bean hopper
- Built-in auto grinder with 16 grind settings
- Manual micro-foam milk texturing
- Dedicated hot water outlet
- Low-pressure preinfusion for a richer crema
Accessories:
- Coffee scoop
- Integrated tamper
- 480ml stainless steel milk frothing jug
- Razor dosing trimming tool
- 54mm stainless steel portafilter
- 1 and 2 cup single and dual wall filter baskets
The Breville the Barista Express is a semi-automatic manual coffee machine with a built-in grinder and an array of features. Any barista will tell you the key to a great espresso is grinding the beans as close to the time of use as possible — and the Barista Express’s conical burr grinder reduces this time to seconds, instead of minutes!
The Barista Express delivers the best in barista-style coffee, offering you exceptional control over your coffee-making process. From adjusting the grind size and dose to PID temperature control during the extraction, you have everything you need to brew the perfect coffee.
As a manual coffee machine, the Barista Express does involve a decent learning curve. But if you love getting into the granular details of coffee making, this model comes with the features to let you dive right in. It includes over 16 different grind settings, manual milk texturing, and accessories like an integrated tamper and razor dosing trimming tool for the puck.
If a great-tasting, barista-style coffee is your preference, you can’t choose better than the Barista Express.
Delonghi La Specialista Arte Pump Coffee Machine
Best Barista-Style Manual Coffee Machine
Pros |
Cons |
|
Complete set of barista accessories Range of coffee-making features |
Difficult learning curve |
Type: Manual / Semi-Automatic - Colour/Material: Stainless Steel, White - Dimensions: 27.5cm (W) x 36.5cm (D) x 40cm (H) - Power Consumption: 1300W - Water Tank Capacity: 1.5L - Weight: 8.8kg - Price: $999.99
Features:
- Thermoblock heating system
- Integrated grinder with 8 grinder settings
- Active temperature control with three temperature settings
- 15-bar pump pressure
- My Latte Art system for milk or microfoam texturing
- Single wall filter baskets
- Dedicated hot water outlet
- Dishwasher safe parts
Accessories:
- Stainless steel milk jug
- Dosing & tamping guide
- Tamper
- Tamping mat
- Steam wand cleaning tool
- Descaling solution
- Single and double filter
The Delonghi La Specialista Arte Pump is a semi-automatic manual coffee machine that comes with an array of barista accessories. Explore the art of coffee-making in your own home. Get creative with the process from grinding and dosing to tamping and texturing, La Specialista Arte Pump comes with the tools to do it.
This machine includes a range of features to assist you with the learning process, such as a dosing and tamping guide and the My Latte Art system, which is perfect for preparing hot milk or textured micro-foam. Everything that you need to start on your coffee-making journey is there.
The Specialista Arte Pump features 8 different grind settings, three infusion temperature settings (92/94/96 °C), and a dedicated hot water outlet for long blacks. The machine’s industry-leading technologies put control in your hands, so your cup is always the taste that you’re expecting.
The perfect gift for an aspiring barista — or a way to elevate your coffee-making craft from the comfort of your own kitchen.
What is the best automatic coffee machine?
Delonghi Primadonna Soul Fully Automatic Coffee Machine
Best Smart/Digital Automatic Coffee Machine
Pros |
Cons |
|
Smart technology simplifies the coffee-making process Huge range of customisable options |
Premuim product at a premium price |
Type: Fully Automatic - Colour/Material: Black / Stainless Steel - Dimensions: 26.2cm (W) x 48.5cm (D) x 39cm (H) - Power Consumption: 1450W - Water Tank Capacity: 2.2L - Weight: 13kg - Price: $2,969.99
Features:
- Bean Adapt Technology personalised machine settings
- Wi-fi connectivity with the Coffee Link App
- Automatic LatteCrema System with 500ml capacity
- 4.3” full touch TFT colour display
- Multi-beverage function with up to 21 recipes
- Electronic thermoblock system for optimal brewing temperature
- 19-bar pump pressure
- Integrated clean function
The Delonghi Primadonna Soul is a modern, fully automatic coffee machine with advanced digital features, designed to bring high-quality coffee to your home without the barista training.
The machine features a state-of-the-art 4.3" touch screen that delivers easy access to up to 5 user profiles and 21 coffee recipes, including one-touch favourites like cappuccinos, flat whites, and lattes.
The Primadonna Soul also features signature Bean Adapt Technology, which allows you to enter your bean types into the app, automatically selecting the grind, dose and temperature settings for the perfect extraction. There’s no doubt this is the smartest way to make coffee!
Everything about coffee is easier with the automatic, digital features of the Primadonna Soul. From choosing your beverage to even cleaning, the machine simplifies the task of coffee-making to give you the best taste with the least effort.
If you love great coffee and smart technology in equal measure, the Primadonna Soul will be your new favourite appliance! Customisable and adaptable, there is no question that this coffee machine deserves its premium label.
Breville the Oracle Espresso Machine
Best Premium Barista-Style Automatic Coffee Machine
Pros |
Cons |
|
Barista-style design without the effort or learning curve Huge range of customisable options |
Premium product at a premium price |
Type: Fully Automatic - Colour/Material: Stainless Steel - Dimensions: 36cm (W) x 34cm (D) x 41.5cm (H) - Power Consumption: 1750W - Water Tank Capacity: 2L - Price: $1,749.00
Features:
- Step-by-step guidance with Impress Puck System
- Assisted 22lb tamping with 7 degree Barista Twist Finish
- Auto MilQ with 3 alternative milk settings for almond, oat and soy
- Hands-free microfoam texturing with automatic steam wand
- ThermoJet heating system for optimum temperature extraction
- European precision burrs with 30 custom grind settings
- Impressive touchscreen experience
- Easy step-by-step 3D interactive setup
- 340g bean hopper
- 2-year product warranty
Accessories:
- 54mm full stainless steel portafiler
- 480ml stainless steel milk jug
- 1 and 2 cup single and dual wall filter baskets
- Water hardness strip
- Precision trimming tool
- Steam wand cleaning tool
- Cleaning disc
- Cleaning brush
The Barista the Oracle Espresso Machine is a premium, fully automatic coffee machine with a barista-style design that brings true café quality to your home. Finished in matte black or sleek stainless steel, the Oracle looks like a manual espresso machine — but takes away the most difficult parts of the coffee-making process.
The Oracle does everything from grinding and dosing to tamping and milk texturing. The machine features 45 custom grind settings and 9 different milk temperature and texture settings. Dual stainless steel boilers allow for simultaneous extraction and milk texturing, while PID allows for precise temperature control within +/- 1°C.
The Oracle comes with a range of accessories for easy cleaning and maintenance, including a stainless portafilter and milk jug, a cleaning kit, and more. The heated group head keeps temperature stable from tank to cup and the LCD display lets you control every aspect of your coffee-making process with the touch of a button.
The Oracle is the ideal choice if you’re a high-quality coffee lover, but not interested in tackling the learning curve of a manual machine. Bring exceptional café-style coffee into your home today — and skip the hard work!