Queenstown’s oldest hospitality establishment Gantley’s Tavern, opened in 1874 near Arthur’s Point, has a new direction with local snow enthusiast Euan (Urb) Patterson now spearheading the venture.

“As my favourite local pub I knew lots about being a customer but not much about the other side of the bar. I knew I wanted to buy it but needed knowledgeable help so asked the existing operations and admin managers Courtney Cook and Katie Murray to join me as shareholders. It’s the best business decision I have ever made.”

Urb is best known as the founder of Queenstown ski rental business Snowbiz and together with Courtney and Katie’s hospitality expertise has brought a new management style to Gantley’s.

“We want to be a good Kiwi pub offering primarily Central Otago beers and wines and hearty pub food with flair.” he says. “Gantley’s is a locals pub where families come, the kids can run around and visitors are very welcome. The tavern has been serving locals for 150 years, and we like to meet customers at the door with a smile and warm atmosphere – it’s the community hub.”

Urb is also the chief gardener while Courtney and Katy, fellow Americans, manage the day-to-day operations.

“Together we’ve enjoyed finding business solutions, bringing together a happy working team and making the tavern our own. There’s been lots of gardening and leaf blowing getting the place in shape,” he says. “Our customers deserve nice surroundings and the extensive outdoor area is appealing for summer weddings, events and live bands while during winter, being on the road to Coronet Peak, we welcome skiers and riders and have the fire going, braziers burning and heaters on the deck.”

HEARTY HOSPITALITY

Gantley’s Tavern winter menu features warm, hearty dishes perfectly paired with Central Otago beer, wines and cider.

“Our head chef Ed Roberts has created classic comfort dishes like lamb shanks, locally grown Royal Burn lamb shoulder, venison sausages, bangers and mash and steaks along with burgers, fries, roasted seasonal vegetables and tasty bar snacks,” says operations manager Courtney Cook.

Courtney enjoys running the hospitality side of the tavern previously working as a teacher in the US. Recent renovations to the restaurant and bar have created a warm, inviting ambience just in time for winter crowds.

“When I arrived in New Zealand six years ago I had never poured a beer so it’s been an amazing experience. We have increased our beer taps from 10 to 24 allowing a greater selection of local craft beers from the likes of Scotts in Oamaru and Queenstown breweries Searchlight and Cargo. The Nook is now our café and breakfast spot while the back restaurant room has a new fire, soft lighting and refreshed interiors making it super cosy.”

Just one minute from the Coronet Peak turn off Gantley’s Tavern is the ideal après ski spot.

“We are open every day from 7.00am serving Higher Ground coffees, baked goods and breakfast followed by our all-day lunch and dinner menu until late,” says Courtney. “People can stop by in ski gear and hang out at the bar or around our outdoor fire pit to unwind with great après ski hospitality.”