Our story

A craft shop that turned into the place Te Anau eats, drinks and plays music. The building is the story: built in 1978 in the cottage style of Fiordland's early European settlers, out of recycled materials.

The Redcliff cottage and its red tin roof, Te Anau

From craft shop to Fiordland landmark

Built in 1978 in the cottage style of Fiordland's early European settlers using authentic recycled materials, The Redcliff began as a craft shop owned by Ray and Helen Willett. It is named after the early Redcliff sheep station in the area, and the wagon out front and the photographs on the walls tell the story of old station life in Fiordland.

A restaurant and bar since 1993

Converted to a restaurant and bar in 1993, it quickly became a favourite meeting place for locals and travellers. We showcase what the region does best: wild hare, venison from the hills and seafood from Fiordland's waters. Most weekends, there is live music too.

Regulars you might know

Cast and crew from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit have been regulars over the years. John Rhys-Davies, who played Gimli, has read Shakespeare sonnets at our annual poets forum.

1978
The cottage was built
1993
Est. in Te Anau
2005
Beef & Lamb Hallmark of Excellence, every year since

Opening hours

  • 7 Days: 3:00 pm – Late

12 Mokonui Street, Te Anau 9600 · 03 249 7431

Come and see us

12 Mokonui Street, Te Anau. A minute from the lakefront.