Discover Ayrburn: Central Otago’s newest wine & dine experience
Nestled in between New Zealand’s most-coveted holiday destinations, Arrowtown and Queenstown, sits Ayrburn, and, the most exciting launch of the year. Saturday 9th December will mark opening day: a love letter to the surrounding Central Otago region, Ayrburn is a collaboration of five unique venues, effortlessly intertwining to bring a dining experience like no other to locals and visitors alike. With a sunny courtyard to eat, and prohibition-style speakeasies to drink, there’s nothing further required (queue Chet Baker and Louis Armstrong).
Keeping the deep-rooted heritage of Central Otago at the forefront of the design, local Architect S.A Studio and Cook Brothers Construction brought the Ayrburn team’s vision to life, meticulously restoring and honouring the original character of Ayrburn’s 160-year past - down to the natural sag of barn rooftops. As you walk through the grounds, cobblestones and exposed beams perfectly pair with modern materials to meet your eye, and its natural surroundings of waterfall-led streams, mature trees and a backdrop of The Remarkables only adhere to the artistry of the location. Cosy corners are there to greet you, making you feel at home as soon as you settle down.
Open seven days a week, Ayburn’s eclectic venues are driven by industry leaders, delivering the best in the business to anybody and everybody who steps through the doors. Dine in the sunny courtyard of the Woolshed, indulging in a breathtaking culinary experience curated by Executive Chef Richard Highnam, honing in on the incredible local meat and produce of the region. Full and merry, pop into The Manure Room for a wine tasting (or three - we don’t count) of Ayrburn’s very own exclusive wine range, collated by Master of Wine Sophie Parker-Thomspon and created by winemaker, Jody Pagey. Polish the night off with a sweet treat from The Dairy, an ice cream parlour reminiscent of a late 1800s milk bar, before setting off to the Burr Bar for a whiskey tipple alongside some smooth jazz as the stars start to set.
“We wanted to create a destination where locals and visitors alike could spend the day with friends and family to simply enjoy being together over world-class food and wine. An incredible amount of time has gone into making sure Ayrburn will be a place for great times. It embodies our commitment to celebrating the stories of the past, by giving them a new future. From our wine tastings in The Manure Room where prohibition saw tipplers evade authorities, to the shining bronze statues of Ayrburn’s founding owner, William Paterson’s prized Clydesdale and ram.” - Chris Meehan, Winton CEO.
A destination beyond its years, Ayrburn is one to saddle up and stay for a while. With further expansions planned throughout 2024, its visionary innovation is only set to improve, promising an unparalleled experience no matter when you find yourself there.
Advertisement
