Blacks Hotel

In a handsome Art Deco building that marks the turn off into Ophir, Blacks Hotel is a quintessential country pub that has seen its fair share of history. First established in 1870, the original pub was located a few street’s down in the main town before moving to its current busy roadside corner. Through fires and floods, it has endured as a beloved gathering spot for both locals and visitors.

Throughout the 150+ years, Blacks Hotel has changed many hands. In 2021, Saskia and Chris Trembath moved down from Feilding to become the latest custodians of this historic gem – along with Daisy the pug, who quickly became a pub sensation. Though new to the hospitality scene, the couple soon found their stride and became integral members of the community.

For out-of-towners, Blacks Hotel offers a delightful retreat with ten charming rooms, each featuring double or twin beds and ensuite bathrooms. Each room boasts its own unique character and aesthetic, from the tartan-adorned Gamekeepers room to the Kowhai room’s vibrant yellow walls and floral accents. The rooms open out to a lovely garden area that bursts into colour with blossom trees and lavender bushes in the warmer months. When winter’s frosty chill sets in (Ophir once recorded the country’s second-lowest temperature at -21.6°), the warm and inviting pub becomes a cosy haven, with hotel guests and nearby locals gathering around the double-sided brick fireplace at the heart of the bar.

Wet your whistle with a pint of Emerson’s or glass of local wine while you peruse the menu, which offers hearty and delicious fare. The dishes, while rustic, are prepared with care and passion that takes them a few notches above your standard pub grub. The Central Otago lamb comes highly recommended, as do the homemade pies – both served with a generous portion of mash and gravy. 

In addition to attracting cyclists and travellers, Blacks Hotel remains a central hub for Ophir’s 52 residents. Friday nights are dedicated to locals, ensuring regular community get-togethers, and it’s not uncommon to stumble upon a lively pool or darts competition on any given day of the week.