The pub's facade dates back to a now-vanished goldrush town that thrived in the 1860s. Photo: Supplied to RNZ
The iconic Cardrona Hotel has new owners.
A group of New Zealand investors has bought the 162-year-old pub that was listed for sale in July.
The business will be run by Wānaka-based businessman Warren Barclay, the owner of Experience Group, which runs hospitality for big sports events.
Barclay said the investors were committed to preserving the hotel's heritage, while exploring ways to improve its boutique accommodation, dining and events. said the investors were committed to preserving the hotel's heritage, while exploring ways to improve its boutique accommodation, dining and events.
"We're incredibly proud to take on the stewardship of such a special part of New Zealand's story," he said. "The Cardrona Hotel holds a unique place in the hearts of so many."
The group will take over on 3 November.
Barclay said the hotel would continue to operate as usual, with no immediate changes planned to staffing or services.
Former owner Cade Thornton has thanked locals and guests for their support over the last 13 years.
"It's been an honour to be part of the Cardrona Hotel's legacy and we look forward to becoming 'locals' ourselves," he said. "We're delighted to see it passed on to passionate new custodians, who share a love for the region and its heritage."
Thornton planned to remain working with Barclay for a short transition period, before taking an extended holiday around Australia early next year.
The Cardrona Hotel sale attracted national and international interest. During the six-week campaign, Thornton had enquiries from potential buyers from New Zealand, Australia, the USA and Singapore.
The hotel on the Crown Range Road, between Wānaka and Queenstown, included a restaurant, year-round beer garden and 17 ensuite hotel rooms, sleeping up to 44 guests.
Its facade dated back to a now-vanished goldrush town that thrived in the 1860s, when Cardrona was a bustling settlement, supporting thousands of Otago miners.
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