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Kitchen's on midday to 8:30pm, seven days.
Book a table → Yarns from the pub
Blog
The valley, the rituals, the fishing, the riding — and the odd bit of nonsense.
The Story Behind Our Rituals
People often ask how we came up with all our weekly rituals at Otematata’s Best Dam Pub. The truth is a little disappointing. There wasn’t a strategic planning session. No consultants were harmed in the making of these promotions. There wasn’t even a whiteboard involved. It started because winter rolls around in the Waitaki Valley every year and, for reasons nobody has quite figured out, people suddenly decide sitting at home is a good idea. Now we’re all for a quiet night occasionally. But...
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Why You Should Probably Stop Thinking About It… and Just Book the Trip
There’s something about Otematata that hits differently. Maybe it’s the lake. Maybe it’s the mountains. Or maybe… it’s the fact you finally give yourself permission to switch off and actually enjoy something. And sitting right in the middle of it all? Otematata’s Best Dam Pub. Not just a pub. A destination. Stay Awhile — You’ve Earned It This isn’t a quick stop on the way through. This is a book the accommodation, stay the night, don’t rush it kind of place. Wake up easy. Take your time....
Why We Are the Way We Are (and Proud of It)
Every now and then, someone asks, “What makes Otematata’s Best Dam Pub… well, the best?” And while we could just say it’s the cold beers,...
Otematata winter getaway - things to do in Waitaki Valley
Escape to Otematata this winter! Base yourself in the heart of the Waitaki Valley for day trips to Oamaru, Kurow, Waimate, Lake Ōhau & more. Enjoy Wild July menus, Matariki celebrations, 90’s Night, All Blacks on big screens, and Super Sundays at the Best Dam Pub. Relax in cosy country hospitality with 20% off direct-booked accommodation until July 31. Perfect for families, adventurers & winter wanderers. Book now & embrace the Best Dam winter getaway!
How to Choose the Right Mobile Bar for Your Special Day
Planning a special event can be both thrilling and overwhelming. One of the key elements that can enhance the atmosphere is a mobile bar....
Join Us for OUR AWESOME MAY EVENTS!
Join the Ote Social Club for an Exciting Fishing Charter Adventure! Calling all fishing enthusiasts and adventure seekers! This Saturday,...
Join Us for the Pink Ribbon Lunch – Together We Can Make a Difference!
Breast cancer touches many lives across New Zealand. Every year, around 3,500 women and 25 men are diagnosed with this disease. Sadly,...
Exciting New Services from Otematata's Best Dam Pub:
Introducing Waitaki Weddings & The Thirsty Float Hey folks, Big news coming your way from your favorite local spot, Otematata's Best Dam...
Discover Otematata's Summer Splendours at the Best Dam Pub
As the sun smiles warmly upon the Waitaki Region, Otematata beckons travelers with its shimmering lakes and the promise of adventure....
Discover the Charm of Otematata: Your Perfect Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Stopover at OTEMATATA's Best Dam Pub
Introduction: Otematata, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Aviemore, offers a blend of natural beauty and welcoming local charm....
Elevate Your Gatherings: Unforgettable Event Offers and Anticipated Christmas Work FunctiONS
The art of hosting exceptional events is a true skill, one that transforms ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. Here at...
The Best Dam Journey
Welcome to Otematata's Best Dam Pub, where tradition and excellence meet. We are excited to share with you our journey towards building a...
A Motorcyclists Paradise
Hey there riders! If you're looking for a destination that offers some of the most exhilarating bike rides in New Zealand, you need to...
The Best Dam Fishing
Ahoy there fellow fishing enthusiasts! Today, I want to talk to you about two beautiful lakes in the South Island of New Zealand -...
Discover Why Otematata's Best Dam Pub is the Place to Be
If you're planning a trip to Otematata, you'll want to make sure you stop by Otematata's Best Dam Pub. This establishment has quickly...
Otematata: The Ultimate New Zealand Holiday Destination
Why come to Otematata?
Emerson's Brewery Beers: A Guide to New Zealand's Best
Looking for a great beer to enjoy at your local pub? Look no further than Emerson's Beers at New Zealand's Best Dam Pub! With a wide...
The weekly rituals
$20 taco Mondays, $1 wings on Wednesdays, happy hour on Fridays and more.
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