Ayrburn, the South Island’s most ambitious tourism development, introduces its latest and most spectacular addition with the opening of Billy’s – a refined, modern Chinese-inspired restaurant. Set within the restored 19th-century homestead of William and Bessie Paterson, opening Saturday, 5 July, Billy’s represents the unveiling of Ayrburn’s final restored building, crowning the $200 million precinct’s heritage chapter, and heralding a new era for Queenstown as a world-class food and wine destination.
Just 20 minutes from Queenstown, nestled among Arrowtown’s rolling green hills and framed by the country’s Southern Alps, Ayrburn has quickly become an icon of the region for both locals and visitors. Since opening in December 2023, it has redefined tourism in Queenstown and across New Zealand, where heritage meets innovation and every corner tells a story. Billy’s represents the culmination of Ayrburn’s restoration journey and a bold new chapter in its culinary story.
THE CORNERSTONE OF NEW ZEALAND TOURISM
Ayrburn is the brainchild of developer and visionary Chris Meehan, who pictured a place where history and exceptional hospitality collide to create a world-class tourism experience. It’s more than a hospitality precinct; it’s a masterclass in destination design, featuring numerous unique venues and expansive event spaces.
“The opening of Billy’s marks a defining moment in Ayrburn’s ongoing renaissance, building on its reputation as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking exceptional food, design and experiences,” says Chris Meehan, “we’ve created a place that not only honours the region’s
cultural legacy but elevates it, offering visitors a unique experience that blends history, hospitality and world-class cuisine in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque settings.”
HISTORY REIMAGINED THROUGH DESIGN
The homestead was built in the late 1800s and was one of the first homes in the area to feature electric lighting. Alongside Ayrburn’s Chris Meehan, Architect Jessie Sutherland of SA Studio led the thoughtful restoration of the homestead’s architecture. Embracing Chris’s bold, contemporary design vision, the space was brought to life with interiors by Alexander &CO, developed in close collaboration with the Winton team.
The result is a space that feels both grounded in history and visually daring. The venue’s interiors are a bold expression of eclectic luxury featuring velvet banquettes, chinoiserie wallpaper, notable artworks, and richly layered textures that create an atmosphere where history is honoured, and indulgence is elevated.
A bespoke glass conservatory extends the dining space outdoors, offering views of the surrounding gardens and local mountain ranges. Inspired by traditional orangeries, the conservatory allows for year-round dining in a setting where glass windows frame the changing scenery like art.
CULINARY HOMAGE
The decision to focus on Chinese cuisine is a nod to the area’s layered history. In the 1860s, Chinese immigrants played a significant role in the Otago gold rush, and many settled in the landscape surrounding Ayrburn. Executive Chef Richard Highnam and his team have developed a menu that reflects this heritage while embracing a modern sensibility.
The menu includes refined versions of classics such as Bang Bang Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and Kung Pao Chicken, alongside offerings like Crayfish Mantou with XO Sauce and Tobiko, Fiery Grain-Fed Beef Hot Pot, and Southern Ocean Toothfish with black bean and Shaoxing emulsion. Dumplings are a highlight, with options like Har Gow Prawn Truffle, Wagyu Beef Siu Mai, and Black Crystal Squid and Crab.
Executive Chef Richard Highnam explains, “At Billy’s, we’ve drawn inspiration from the region’s history and created a menu that honours that legacy while creatively embracing the new. Each dish tells a story – rooted in tradition, elevated with local ingredients, and designed to be shared.”
THE AYRBURN EXPERIENCE
The precinct invites guests for an all-in, good time with several unique establishments, including the two most recent launches: The Bakehouse and R.M. Prime Produce. With the addition of Billy’s, they join the Ayrburn stable of many unique venues.
- The Woolshed – Offering fireside or alfresco bistro-style dining from lunch through to dinner, The Woolshed is the heart of Ayrburn, serving polished comfort for all.
- The Manure Room – Previously a cartshed, holds self-guided wine flights and shared plates throughout the day, transforming into a sophisticated bar during the evening.
- The Barrel Room – Set amongst Ayrburn’s ageing barrels, this hidden treasure trove cloaked in mystery is the perfect place to enjoy Ayrburn wine tastings, dance along to the jazz club’s tunes, and experience private candle-lit soirees.
- The Burr Bar – A haven where guests can sip whiskey and cocktails long into the night, all while enjoying a taste of Billy’s through the Burr Bar snack menu.
- The Dairy – A quaint, nostalgic gelato parlour that is like stepping into a storybook of sweetness.
- The Bakehouse – A charming all-day cafe and bakery serving artisanal pastries and fresh coffee to enjoy in-house or take-away.
- R.M Prime Produce – A premium butcher and deli, showcasing the region’s finest produce and Ayrburn wine.
- The Dell – A central lawn to host vibrant markets and concerts.
- The Grounds – A captivating blend of natural beauty and manicured design, discover meandering pathways, a flowing waterfall, mature trees, and ponds that mirror the Southern Alps.
From long lunches and romantic evenings to family weekends and cultural celebrations, Ayrburn has become synonymous with unforgettable moments for locals and visitors alike.
Reservations for Billy’s are available now via ayrburn.com.
