The highly anticipated culinary destination, located on the South Island, offers exceptional tastes in “one of New Zealand’s most naturally stunning locations”
An immersive culinary experience will launch on New Zealand’s hospitality scene this week, as Ayrburn – an innovative food and wine destination – takes centre stage on the South Island. Located between Queenstown and Arrowtown, Ayrburn features five unique venues, with each providing a taste of some of the country’s best food and wine.
Located amongst manicured grounds and mature trees, Ayrburn’s venues are positioned next to a natural waterfall-fed stream that passes outdoor tables, offering guests an alfresco dining experience with a breathtaking backdrop of the Southern Alps.
“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,” said Chris Meehan, CEO of Ayrbrun developer Winton.
Each venue at Ayrburn sets out to create a tailored experience, from sunny courtyard dining at the Woolshed and wine tastings in The Manure Room to a sweet treat at The Dairy, whiskey sips in the Burr Bar and regular events and live entertainment at The Dell. In 2024, Ayrburn will also unveil flagship restaurant Billy’s alongside additional dining venues The Barrel Room, The Bakehouse and RM’s Butcher.
Industry leaders from across New Zealand were sought out to elevate the dining experience and oversee Ayrburn’s numerous venues. The culinary team is led by respected Executive Chef Richard Highnam and Master of Wine Sophie Parker-Thompson, who has worked alongside winemaker, Jody Pagey, to bring their expertise to Ayrburn’s award-winning wine range, available exclusively on the premises.
The design of Ayrburn – one of the region’s first and most successful farms, dating back to 1864 – pays homage to the heritage of the buildings that make up the dining precinct. Every building at Ayrburn has been meticulously restored to honour its original features. The interiors, however, designed by Alexander &CO., showcase a rich personality of their own, complemented by an extensive art collection.
“[Ayrburn] embodies our commitment to celebrating the stories of the past, by giving them a new future,” Meehan commented. “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… It’s not just a destination, it’s an invitation to experience the best of New Zealand’s food, wine, and hospitality, in a place chosen 160 years ago for being one of the country’s most naturally stunning locations.”
Ayrburn will open to the public on Saturday, 9th December 2023.