One of New Zealand’s most anticipated openings is being revealed tomorrow, Saturday 9th December, with food and wine destination, Ayrburn, opening its doors to the public. The news is expected to mark the country’s largest hospitality event of the year, gearing up to set a new international benchmark for luxury dining institutions globally with five restaurants set to open this year, and five more to come, each offering a unique perspective on a culinary experience.
Beyond the opening weekend, Ayrburn is set to be a must-visit destination, offering a taste for every occasion across its initial five unique venues, ready to be experienced from dawn through to dusk.
Ayrburn’s multiple venues will be overseen by industry leaders joining the precinct from across the country. The culinary team is headed by respected Executive Chef Richard Highnam, and Master of Wine Sophie Parker-Thomson, who has worked alongside winemaker, Jody Pagey, together delivering a destination that offers venues catering to every taste and occasion, with only the highest standard.
Chris Meehan, Ayrburn visionary, says “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.
Ayrburn is a testament to our dedication to crafting exceptional places. It’s not just a destination; it’s an invitation to have fun and 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.”
With majestic views of the Southern Alps, nestled amidst manicured grounds and mature trees, and with a natural waterfall-fed stream idling past outdoor dining tables, Ayrburn perfectly captures the essence of its breathtaking natural surroundings and serves as a gateway to unforgettable good times.
In 2024, Ayrburn will expand further, unveiling Billy’s, its flagship restaurant that will offer a truly opulent dining experience, along with The Barrel Room, The Bakehouse and RM’s Butcher. Each individually conceptualised to not only meet but exceed the expectations of the highest calibre of guests, with the launch expected to draw the attention and attendance of the who’s who in New Zealand and abroad.
Established in 1864, Ayrburn seamlessly blends its heritage as one of the first and most successful farms in the area with a world-class wine and culinary experience. Ayrburn is a testament to timeless craftsmanship and visionary innovation, with this highly anticipated destination bearing an unparalleled commitment to excellence.