Chatto Creek Tavern, Central Otago, NZ

Experience genuine southern hospitality at the Historic Chatto Creek Tavern Est. 1886. The 18" thick Schist stone and mud walls allow it to be cool in summer and warm in the winter.  We serve with pride the best Blue Cod, Whitebait and Rib eye Steak meals. With friendly service, Chatto Creek Tavern is an ideal lunch stop on the Rail Trail; lie in the hammocks, talk to the donkeys and enjoy lunch before taking on Tiger Hill.

The bar has an extensive collection of Antique Guns and historic artefacts. The shaded beer garden extends to the Rail Trail and to the smallest operating Post Office in New Zealand; spend time reading its interesting history and enjoying the old photos; imagine being the Post Mistress in this small tin shed for 42 years without heating or running water.

We look forward to your visit to our vision of paradise.

Your Host: Lesley Middlemass.

Address: State Highway 85, Chatto Creek, Central Otago, New Zealand

Phone: 03 447 3710  Int: ++64 3 447 3710

Fax: 03 447 3212,  Email: info@chattocreektavern.co.nz

 

 


About Chatto Creek Tavern

At Chatto Creek time isn’t measured by the hour, it’s measured by good conversation, good food and by the glass.

After coming for holidays for 6 weeks each year, Lesley loved the area so much that when the opportunity arose to buy the tavern, after a split second decision the deal was made there and then, and 3 days later they moved in. Since then the business and clientele has built up into a flourishing tavern with local identities who at times enhance the atmosphere.

Experience genuine southern hospitality in the surrounds of the Chatto Creek Tavern. Blue cod and whitebait are our specialty.

Accommodation:

Make yourself at home in our recently restored rooms.

We have 2 double unique and cosy rooms, and a 6 bed bunk room with shared bathroom facilities,

Our rustic country garden has historical memorabilia scattered throughout.  Relax and enjoy the immense southern skies and make a point of going out at night to see the marvellous constellations. Our friendly surroundings and service will soon have you feeling at home

An informal camping area is also available. 

Historical interests:

In the grounds of the Chatto Creek Tavern, you will also find the oldest working Post Office in New Zealand (photo below). Spend time in the Post Office admiring our local history in the original state.

Historic Chatto Creek Hotel - built for a coach stop in the mining days.

Otago Rail Trail

Chatto Creek Tavern is adjacent to the Otago Central Rail Trail.  Relax and catch your breath between Omakau and Alexandra. Have a quick lunch on your way or spend time relaxing and enjoying the delightful setting that you find yourself in.

We are currently building a larger bike stand area to cater better for Rail Trail cyclists.


Meals

Our menu reflects our commitment to use fresh ingredients to provide you with an enjoyable dining experience.  Heart warming Pinots and chilled whites (all from the Central Otago area) available to compliment your meal.

El fresco dining is available in a garden setting adjacent to the Otago Rail Trail.

  • Fresh Blue Cod - succulent and delicious
  • Whitebait – West Coast whitebait (you won’t want to share this delicacy!)
  • Rib-eye steak -  every Southern man’s dream
  • Other mouth-watering mains available on our menu
  • Decadent desserts to complete your evening meals
  • Continental and cooked breakfasts available

Currently we are investigating the feasibility of adding on a larger dining room to blend in with the existing tavern.

 

 


Links

We recommend many places of interest in Central Otago, and would like to share some of these with you:

Trail Journeys 

Central Otago Rail Trail

Taieri Gorge Railway

Cycle Surgery, Middlemarch

Lauder School Rail Trail B&B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Contact Us

Business Hours:
Monday - Sunday
11:00 am till late
State Highway 85, Chatto Creek, Central Otago,
New Zealand

Phone: 03 447 3710  Int: ++64 3 447 3710
Fax: 03 447 3212
Email: info@chattocreektavern.co.nz