The New Zealand Whisky Cellar Door

Bars key icon.
Bars key icon.

Monday11:00 am – 2:00 pm.

Tuesday11:00 am – 2:00 pm.

Wednesday11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Thursday11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Friday11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Saturday11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Sunday11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

9 Tyne St, South Hill, Oamaru

03 434 8842

Located in the historic surroundings of Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct, The New Zealand Whisky Collection Cellar Door is an opportunity to experience a rare dram of world-class whisky, crafted from the legacy of what was once the world’s southernmost distillery.

1997 marked the final year of production for Dunedin’s Willowbank Distillery, with hundreds of barrels of cask-strength whisky auctioned off or mothballed. By happy chance, the last 433 barrels were stored away in a seaside warehouse in Ōamaru, biding their time and waiting to be rediscovered. That moment came 13 years later when three Tasmanian mates, Greg Ramsay, Tom Holder and Troy Trewin, caught wind of the barrels and saw endless potential to relaunch New Zealand whisky to the world. And so began The New Zealand Whisky Collection.

The world received the whisky with open arms, the collection has since won awards at major international competitions from London to San Francisco. A bottle of this glorious golden liquid is available in countless continents across the globe, but nothing compares to enjoying it in its birthplace, where grand historical architecture complements the rich heritage of this special spirit.

The New Zealand Whisky Collection’s cellar door has an all-welcome policy, whether you’re new to the game or a well-seasoned sipper. It’s a relaxing and cosy atmosphere that will wrap you in its charming Scottish tartan decor, whimsical wallpaper, solid wooden furnishings and dark leather armchairs. A knowledgeable team is on hand to guide you through a unique tasting experience, pairing each release with a captivating tale. Alternatively, you can opt for a fun curated whisky flight, before venturing over to the shop to explore a range of classics, limited-edition releases and cellar door exclusives to elevate your at-home cabinet.

Words by Maggie Worthington & Photography by Supplied

Information not correct? Report an error

Location

9 Tyne St, South Hill, Oamaru

Nearby Places

Steampunk HQ

Exterior view of Steampunk HQ victorian building in Ōamaru.
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki
Galleries and museum key icon.

This epicentre of Steampunk culture comes alive at the Steampunk HQ, where interactive art comes to life in a way that’s fun, antique and futuristic all at once.

Silenzio Pottery

Close up of Silenzio Pottery's Andrew Killick
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki

Clay has been used as a medium to craft pottery since prehistoric times, yet its novelty hasn’t worn off – arguably, the allure of a handcrafted ceramic holds...

Buggyrobot Gallery

Close up of Martin using a tool to work on orange robot sculpture at his workshop desk
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki
Galleries and museum key icon.

Buggyrobot Gallery is a quirky gallery and workshop found in the heart of Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct, and it’s a must-visit.

Tees St

Waiter holding breakfast board with yogurt and fruit, an orange and carrot juice, and a piece of toast with a poached egg and pickles on top
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki Editor's Pick
Cafes key icon.

Cucina’s day time counterpart with colourful, tasty brunch plates. The huevos rancheros have been winning ‘big brekkie’ traditionalists over since 2016 and the bombolino doughnuts are the mid-day treat you deserve.

Similar Places

Silenzio Pottery

Close up of Silenzio Pottery's Andrew Killick
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki

Clay has been used as a medium to craft pottery since prehistoric times, yet its novelty hasn’t worn off – arguably, the allure of a handcrafted ceramic holds...

Riverstone Kitchen

Two people seated at a table holding up a glass of wine each in front of plates of locally sourced food
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki Editor's Pick
Restaurants key icon.

Riverstone Kitchen has been working with Waitaki producers and growing their own ingredients since day one. Their simple, seasonal approach has earned a huge following and heaps of awards, so wander the veggie gardens, enjoy a meal and stay awhile.

Bruce's Barber

A blonde haired woman smiling behind the counter at Bruce's Barber Oamaru. '
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki
Services key icon.

Located in the heart of the Thames Street shopping district in Ōamaru is the ultimate gentlemen’s grooming experience, Bruce’s Barber.

Soul, Surf and Skate

A view of the entrance to the shop from the footpath.
Place Ōamaru & Waitaki
Fashion key icon. Services key icon.

Ōamaru’s one-and-only surf and skate shop, Soul Surf & Skate, is located in the heart of the town’s retail district on Thames Street.