With longer days, warmer evenings, and the festive season fast approaching, Central Otago is coming into its own, and there’s perhaps nowhere better to enjoy it all than Ayrburn. From live music beneath the mountains and spectacular gardens bursting into bloom to exceptional dining, Christmas entertaining and New Year’s Eve celebrations, the much-loved destination has a particularly enticing few months ahead. Whether a trip south is already on the calendar or you’re looking for a reason to book one, consider this your guide to making the most of the season at Ayrburn.

Halloween at Ayrburn

When: Saturday 31st October, 3.30pm–5pm

Ayrburn is getting into the Halloween spirit with an afternoon of trick-or-treating, costumes and family-friendly mischief across the precinct. Kids can follow a mapped trail through the grounds collecting treats along the way, with ghosts, ghouls, witches and wizards adding to the fun, while the restaurants and bars remain open for those wanting to stay on for an early dinner or drink. Book tickets here.

Celebrate Melbourne Cup at The Woolshed

When: Tuesday 3rd November, from 12pm

For those celebrating further south, Ayrburn is bringing its signature Melbourne Cup festivities to The Woolshed, where a four-course long lunch, live music and racing action on the big screens will set the scene for a memorable afternoon. Adding a little friendly competition to the occasion is the second annual Mill Mile, Ayrburn’s much-loved rubber duck race down Mill Creek, with prizes up for grabs for those whose ducks cross the finish line first. Expect excellent food, plenty of entertainment and a rather unconventional addition to the racing calendar. Book your tickets here.

A night of Kiwi music legends: L.A.B, Sir Dave Dobbyn and Taylah

When: Saturday, 7th November
Where: The Dell

Ayrburn’s picturesque grounds are about to play host to one of the season’s most anticipated musical events, with L.A.B, Sir Dave Dobbyn and rising star Taylah coming together for an unforgettable evening of live music. Taking over The Dell, the special concert marks the first Queenstown performances for both L.A.B and Sir Dave Dobbyn in more than six years, bringing an extraordinary line-up of Kiwi favourites to one of the country’s most beautiful settings. With limited capacity and a soundtrack that promises plenty of singing along, this is one summer outing we’d be securing tickets for sooner rather than later. Buy your tickets here.

An unforgettable New Year’s Eve awaits at Ayrburn

When: Thursday, 31st December
Where: Billy’s, The Woolshed, The Bakehouse

If ever there were an occasion to dress up, gather your favourite people and make a proper night of it, New Year’s Eve is surely it. And this year, Ayrburn is offering three excellent ways to farewell 2026, each with its own appeal.

For those who appreciate a little grandeur, Billy’s will host an indulgent evening of exceptional dining, with a special celebratory set menu priced at $175 per person. With its beautiful interiors, intimate atmosphere and impeccable hospitality, it’s an enticing choice for those looking to see out the year over a memorable meal and a glass or two of something special. Book here.

Over at The Woolshed, the celebrations promise an equally impressive affair, with a $195 per person dining experience bringing together beautiful food, excellent wine and plenty of festive spirit. It’s an ideal setting for gathering friends and family around the table, raising a glass to the year that’s been and making an occasion of the final evening of 2026. Book here.

For those whose New Year’s Eve plans involve a little less sitting and a lot more dancing, The Bakehouse is where the party will be. With live music, a band and celebrations continuing through to midnight, it’s the place to welcome 2027 in suitably lively fashion. Better still, those dining at Billy’s or The Woolshed can make their way here afterwards to keep the festivities going. Book here.

Ayrburn in Bloom: A destination in its own right

Ayrburn’s exceptional food and wine may be what first draws you in, but its magnificent gardens are becoming every bit as compelling. Across the estate, more than 12,000 tulips herald the arrival of spring, while heritage trees, beautifully maintained lawns and an ever-changing collection of flowers create a setting that is nothing short of spectacular.

As summer approaches, roses, hydrangeas and colourful garden beds bring another dimension to the landscape, with the estate’s dedicated gardening team ensuring there’s always something beautiful to discover. Whether you’re wandering the grounds before lunch, enjoying a glass of wine in the sunshine or simply taking in the extraordinary surroundings, allow a little extra time to appreciate what has become one of Ayrburn’s greatest attractions.

Christmas entertaining, made easy with R.M Prime Produce

Christmas entertaining should be about enjoying the company around your table, not spending the entire day preparing what’s on it. Fortunately, Ayrburn’s R.M Prime Produce is taking some of the work out of festive hosting, with an exceptional selection of quality meats available to order ahead of Christmas.

From beautifully prepared lamb racks and whole hams to premium eye fillets and turkeys, the offering brings everything needed for a memorable Christmas feast together in one place. Whether you’re hosting the extended family or planning something a little more intimate, consider the main event taken care of, leaving you more time for the things that make Christmas special. Order form here.

The Ayrburn Classic returns for another spectacular weekend

When: Friday, 19th – Sunday, 21st February 2027

Looking a little further ahead, one of New Zealand’s most anticipated automotive events is returning to Ayrburn, and the 2027 edition promises to be particularly special. Set against the spectacular Central Otago landscape, the Ayrburn Classic will once again bring together an extraordinary collection of automobiles, alongside exceptional food, wine, design and entertainment. This year also sees the introduction of the inaugural Ayrburn Classic Concours Class, presented by Hartfield Jewellers, where 40 remarkable cars will compete for prestigious honours. With tickets already on sale, this is one weekend well worth marking in the calendar. Secure your ticket here.