It replaces the long-standing Hotel South Otago, known locally as The Southy, which was demolished in October 2022 due to the cost of the earthquake strengthening.
The Southy opened in 1957 and was a popular tavern for locals and beyond.
But what was there before it? The Clutha Leader take a look at the history of the spot with the help of South Otago Museum.
■ The first business on the spot belonged to J. Rackley Blacksmith in the mid-1800s
■ The site was the home of a grocery store from the late-1800s onwards, with several owners during the period including McEwans Grocery and Roberston Groceries.
■ The site was then purchased by Import Stores and leased to a variety of owners, including McSkimming & Mackenzie who opened the first garage on the site. Other businesses included Todds and J. H. Stevenson Garage.
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