The Matakana Village Pub

The historic Matakana Pub is under the new ownership of a couple who are keen to put down roots in the district.

Cam and Georgia Ogle, along with their three boys, aged nine, seven and two, relocated from Cambridge last month.

Although new to the area as residents, they say they have been visitors here for many years.

“We’re excited to be taking over the responsibility of running a business that is such a landmark in Matakana,” they say.

“We’re bringing time, passion and energy, and looking forward to ‘the pub’ being something the community and our staff can be proud of.”

Georgia is also bringing considerable hospitality experience to the role.

Although she studied business management and HR at university, she has spent her working life running bars, restaurants and licensed cafes in New Zealand and England.

Cam’s experience is in property development and construction, so he has been keen to look at how the outside of the pub can be made more family-friendly.

The couple say their goal is to deliver consistency – consistently good food and drink, and friendly service.

“What we want is a place where people want to come back to and tell their friends about – a place that people plan to visit.”

As well as reviewing the menu, Georgia and Cam are also taking a fresh look at what they serve over the bar. They will continue to support local wineries and craft beers, and are introducing a number of locally made gins.

“We’re keen to support local wherever we can, whether it’s in the kitchen or the bar.”

They intend to be hands-on at the pub and say they are looking forward to meeting “the locals”.