|   | |||||||||||||||||
| “one of the finest hostelries ever erected …” Martinborough is a quirky little village, with a majestic square at its heart. Surrounding it … historic buildings like the quaint museum designed by one of New Zealand’s foremost early architects, Natusch, and the general store Pain and Kershaw, run by the same family since the 1880’s. Martinborough sits on the site of New Zealand’s first sheep station and was established by Irish immigrant John Martin…check out his caricature in the Hotel’s Settlers Bar. In a gesture of patriotism, he laid the streets out in the shape of a Union Jack flag, and called them after places he’d visited on his world travels. Taking pride of place at the entrance to the square is Peppers Martinborough Hotel. Developer Edmund Buckeridge described it in 1882 as “one of the finest hostelries ever erected in any inland town in New Zealand.” A way station for prosperous travellers to and from the South Wairarapa’s huge, isolated sheep stations, its grand façade has been a focal point for the town right from the early days. In the early nineteen eighties the wine pioneers discovered that Martinborough’s soil and microclimate are perfect for grape growing, the wine industry grew and the hotel was fully restored in 1996. Martinborough soon made a name for itself as a centre for good food and good wine by visitors and locals alike. But the hotel hasn’t forgotten its past, and it’s that sense of history and place that will charm you as soon as you step in the front door - from the battered suitcase of a gentleman traveller at the top of stairs, to the sloping floors and olden day sketches of local personalities adorning the walls. Today Peppers Martinborough Hotel offers character, comfort and old style personal attention combined. As for the little town with the big name which attracts thousand to its fairs, wine and food festival and vibrant restaurant and café scene, it remains as quirky as ever. |   | |||||||||||||||||
