Harsh economic times have forced the Milton Country Club to close its Westside Cafe operation, leaving seven permanent and casual staff out of work.
Workers were warned two weeks ago falling customer numbers may force the cafe to close its doors.
The club held an extraordinary meeting this week, where it was unanimously decided to cease trading immediately.
Westside Cafe is owned and independently operated by the club, with its 489 members effectively shareholders in the business. Three directors were appointed to run its daily affairs.
Club president and Westside director Gary Foster said the tough economic climate had forced the club's hand.
The cafe was built as part of major extensions at the club about five years ago. Located next to the club at the southern end of Milton's main street, the business was ideally located to attract both locals and passing motorists, Mr Foster said.
But he believed the community had not supported the venture as much as the club would have liked and a drop-off in campervan traffic had also affected trading.
Ironically, the business recently won its third consecutive excellence award from Beef and Lamb New Zealand for superior beef and lamb meals.
The staff had done an exceptional job "under pretty harsh times" and it was never easy to tell people they were out of work, Mr Foster said.
The cafe employed three permanent workers, two part-timers and two students.
The building would be available to lease and Mr Foster said there had already been some initial interest.
