The historic Gantley’s hotel built in 1865 to provide a welcome stopover for Otago gold miners was the inspiration for the recently opened ultra-modern Brew Hall events space, brewery and distillery.

Developed by The Cargo Collective the complex is the brainchild of Malcolm and Meron Blakey who previously operated Gantley’s before it sold to new owners.

“It was in 2020 while we were running Gantley’s as a restaurant and as an outlet for our Cargo beer label that we came up with the concept for the Brew Hall,” says Malcolm. “ There was underutilised space on the site in the back garden area which we thought would be ideal for a versatile events and brewery venue and from there the idea snowballed.”

Queenstown architectural firm Yoke Architects designed the building which was built by Lakes Building Company.

“The Brew Hall features a beautiful stone exterior, high ceilings and glass panels that provide a view into the adjoining brewery. It is a multipurpose and high-tech function space with an open floor which serves as a blank canvas for creative events accommodating 170 people seated and as many as 240 standing.”

Malcolm says the hall is purpose built for their brewery which was previously based in Gibbston.

“We had a large shipping container that had been modified for the brewery and while it gave visitors a great experience we were limited by capacity. By comparison our new brewery is very spacious and provides a stunning backdrop for events.”

“The new brewery has capacity for 8,000 litres a month and we produce our core range of beer in the facility as well as seasonal and special release brews,” he says. “ Tour and tasting experiences are available several times a week providing a special insight into how beer is made accompanied by tasting platters. Our add on activities such as ‘design your own beer label’ add another dimension.”

The contemporary Brew Hall, completed just a year after construction began to its exact specifications, has received a positive early response from event managers and event participants since its opening in June 2024.

“People like the versatility, modern design, spacious layout and welcoming atmosphere. It is available for events year-round ensuring a consistent space regardless of the season,” says Malcolm. “As well as functions such as weddings, corporate events, team building programmes and gala dinners we also plan to host fundraising events and partner with local charities to give back to the community.”

Team building challenges

The Cargo Collective has developed diverse experiences aimed at team building ranging from a Brew Your Own Beer competition to a culinary My Kitchen Rules challenge a Great Bake Off and mixology cocktail contest.

A popular event is the Distil Your Own Gin experience which The Cargo Collective’s Malcolm Blakey describes as a “hands on aromatic journey”.

“Participants  blend botanicals, distil their creation and leave with a custom-crafted bottle of gin. This is all about collaboration and there is nothing quite so satisfying as creating your own bespoke spirit – this forum is perfect for gin enthusiasts and teams looking to blend camaraderie with craft.”

Bookings for beer tours and Distil Your Own Gin www.cargocollective.co.nz