The founders of the novel retail centre, café and honey experience in Frankton, known as Country Lane, have a direct link to the rural property’s farming history.

Tineke Enright and her brother Bruce Grant developed the centre on the family farm after their father Bill Grant retired from farming.

“Our great-great grandfather started the farm so Bruce and I are fifth generation,” says Tineke.  “I first began using the barn for my children’s clothing brand Pretty Kiwi and was joined by boutique businesses Lusso and Sugar Trading. Then Nick Cameron from Buzzstop enquired about using the old woolshed for his honey business and the Country Lane concept was born.”

Country Lane is now home to The Barn, Buzzstop Honey Centre & Café, Wakatipu Massage, In the Pink Flowers, Ride to the Sky and the Mount Michael Wine tasting room.

“Our vision was for a family friendly, welcoming atmosphere for people to shop, eat, play or just relax. There’s a lovely rustic farm vibe with a large outdoor area, free parking and a boutique mix of shopping and experiences not found elsewhere in Queenstown.”

Tineke says there are future development plans with some innovative ideas in the mix.

“We hope to bring some animals back to the farm and will continue to landscape the area and evolve the laneway organically to attract the right people and businesses who fit with our ethos.”