Albany food vendors forced out amid university leasing plans

Campus Kebab and Sushi Lounge, two popular food vendors on the Albany campus, are being forced to vacate their premises as the university moves forward with plans to re-lease buildings.  

While the university claims they are considering alternative spaces for the stalls, the owner of Campus Kebab says he does not know the fate of his business after being repeatedly ignored.  

Campus Kebab has been on Massey Auckland campus for 18 years, family-owned and run by Abbas Froozen Far.  

Owner Abbas said, "We have requested information, but there has been no explanation, no opportunity to discuss alternatives, and no support for relocation. We have been left completely in the dark.” 

Abbas believed there were alternative locations for his business and offered to fund necessary renovations, remaining hopeful that a solution could be found after nearly two decades of service. 

Last year, the university announced work would be relocated from the Business School, Quad A and Quad B buildings, as they looked to reduce gross floor area by leasing surplus buildings. 

The university announced two weeks ago that part of the Student Central building will be leased to the NZ Police to form a police cadet school. However, it's not yet clear who will be leasing Quad A and Quad B where the food stalls are located.  

Abbas said, “It feels as though our long-standing presence and contributions to the university have been overlooked.”  

He received an email last July stating the Quad B building would be leased, but no further details have been provided about what this means for his business. 

He outlined concerns over discriminatory actions by the university, stating, “We were frequently excluded from catering university events, and signage around campus appeared to direct foot traffic away from our location, while promoting cafés near the library.” 

“We urge the university to listen to our concerns and to the voices of its students. We are not asking for special treatment — only a fair opportunity to continue serving this community in a suitable location.”  

A petition has recently been rolled out by Te Tira Ahu Pae student rep Kevin Francis, calling for Massey to provide a new space for the beloved kebab shop.  

The petition has amassed over 400 signatures since being posted to the Te Tira Ahu Pae website on April 30th. 

Rep Francis told Massive, “I started this petition because it is RIDICULOUS, a small business owner who's been there for 18 years is being kicked out just so Massey can lease it out some more profitable company!”  

As the only halal food vendor on campus, Campus Kebab offers a welcoming space for international students, reflecting the university's commitment to inclusivity. 

Francis said the Albany Muslim Society was deeply concerned about the potential closure of the campus’ only halal food provider. 

A Massey spokesperson had reassured students over the possible loss of the two food stalls, telling Massive, “We are considering alternative spaces on campus for both of these eateries.” 

They also noted there are several alternative eateries on campus like Food for Thought, Scholars Café, and Browse Café.  

Massey University was asked whether supporting Halal providers was a priority for the university, but did not provide a response.