Media Release

Historic Carlton re-opens today
20 September 2013, Christchurch

The iconic Carlton re-opens this afternoon, just in time for Friday night drinks. Re-built on the original site, the new Carlton is the third version of the pub since it opened in 1864.

Manager Steve Holmes is excited about bringing patrons back to the Carlton.

“We’ve spared no expense, and the place looks incredible. The design team has worked hard to incorporate features of the old Carlton into the fitout but with a fresh new perspective.”

The new Carlton includes multiple function and event rooms as well as private areas. A mezzanine floor over-looks the downstairs dance floor and an impressive collection of taxidermy. The toilet areas are highlighted with transitioning coloured lights that play off titled marble walls.

Developer David Marsh of Oakwood Properties says that they are thrilled with the finished product.

“The Carlton is our flagship property in Christchurch. We couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome. It sets a new standard for the city and heralds the return of a significant player in the hospitality scene”, Marsh says.

Publican James Murdoch has taken great care to ensure that as much of the history of Carlton corner is preserved on the inside of the building.
“The Carlton’s an icon site in Christchurch, with a lot of history. It was the site of the first Garden Bar in New Zealand, and a cattle trading site in the mid-1800s. You’ll see a lot of that history referenced on the inside of the building in the form of artefacts and memorabilia,” Murdoch says.
Award winning interior designer Tom Skyring is behind the interiors. Skyring is the designer responsible for some of the country’s top bars and restaurants, including Dine, the Bangalore Polo Club and The Ballarat in Queenstown.
The Carlton re-opens to the public at 4pm this afternoon.

ENDS