Wanderyn
Cardrona Hotel
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · NZ

Cardrona Hotel

Getting around: About 25 minutes' drive from Wanaka on the Cardrona Valley Road toward Queenstown.
Hours: Operates as a working hotel/bar/restaurant with standard hospitality hours, generally through the day and evening — check current hours.

The Cardrona Hotel is a historic 1863 gold-rush-era hotel, one of New Zealand's oldest, with a distinctive weathered exterior that's made it one of the most photographed pubs in the country. It still functions as a working bar and restaurant, sitting along the scenic Cardrona Valley Road between Wanaka and Queenstown, near the Cardrona ski field.

It's a natural stop on the drive between the two towns, worth a photo of the building even if not stopping for a meal, and a proper meal or drink if you have the time.

Cardrona Hotel FAQs

How old is it?

It dates from 1863, making it one of New Zealand's oldest hotels, built during the Otago gold rush era.

Can I eat and drink there?

Yes, it operates as a working bar and restaurant, open to the public.

Is it near Cardrona ski field?

Yes, it's along the same valley road, making it a convenient stop before or after a day skiing at Cardrona.

Is it on the road between Wanaka and Queenstown?

Yes, it's a well-known landmark stop on the Cardrona Valley Road connecting the two towns.

Is it just a photo stop or worth staying for a meal?

Both — many visitors stop just for a photo of the historic building, but it's also a genuine working pub worth a meal or drink.

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