Olivers Heritage Complex Relaunched In Clyde

Olivers Heritage Complex Relaunched In Clyde

After an intensive restoration project one of Central Otago's most prominent heritage buildings, Olivers Lodge and Stables in Clyde, has been relaunched providing quality boutique accommodation and opening a new chapter in the 142-year old history of the landmark complex.

Owners Andrea and David Ritchie purchased the New Zealand Historic Places
category one property in February 2010 and have spent the past year
authentically restoring and refurbishing the accommodation to a high
standard.

"We have worked closely with the Trust and have had their full support,"
says Mr Ritchie. "A conservation plan was prepared reflecting the historical significance of the buildings and has been strictly adhered to. Obviously it has been a very costly project but we were determined to get it right and reinforce the important place the buildings have in the region."

Eleven rooms housed in separate Stables and Lodge accommodation are open to
the public offering a range of accommodation from deluxe standard to remier
rooms.

"All the rooms have been modernised but we have retained schist walls, stone floors and rough sawn timber in the five Stables rooms to achieve an
historic and rustic ambience. New bathrooms and en suites have been incorporated into all the rooms along with other contemporary features to
meet the demands of both domestic and international guests. But the links
with the past are still very strong throughout."

The kitchen, guests' breakfast room and lounge have been sensitively
restored and landscaping highlights the original Olivers central courtyard
and gardens.

Olivers was established in 1869 by merchant Benjamin Naylor who opened a
general store, known as Victoria Store, to service the prospectors working
in the goldfields surrounding Clyde. Constructed of local schist the property was expanded and altered during the intervening years by a series
of owners. In 1981 well known tourism identity Fleur Sullivan launched the
highly successful Olivers Restaurant, in the original store, putting Clyde
on the map.

Plans are in place to re-open Olivers restaurant at a later date.

"We have yet to decide on the final details for the restaurant building,"
says Mr Ritchie. "Our focus has been to revamp the accommodation and have it fully open for the summer season."

Olivers is ideally positioned in central Clyde as a stopover for cyclists on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

"We have already had many guests riding the trail and they are fascinated by the history and the timeless atmosphere that Olivers offers. Their feedback is that they love the experience and we look forward to welcoming cyclists as well as other visitors to Central Otago all year round."

"The Maniototo is particularly beautiful in the winter and as well as
offering curling and ice skating, several major ski fields are just an hour
away. Olivers is the perfect base from which to enjoy these winter
activities," he says.

An open day to allow Clyde and Central Otago residents an opportunity to
view the restored Olivers Lodge and Stables will be held on Saturday March
26 2011, from 11am till 3pm.

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