Ferg’s Bar opens in Queenstown

In the middle of what some have described as an economic bloodbath in Queenstown, one optimistic business has opened a new bar.

World-renowned Fergburger is opening Ferg’s Bar to the public today beside its burger eatery, bakery and ice-cream shop.

Group general manager Stephen Bradley said more than 100 people from Queenstown and around the country had applied for the 20 jobs going.

‘‘There were a lot of applicants who were really grateful to be part of our new concept . . . We had a significant number across kitchen, bar and service staff.

‘‘There would have been over 100 and a mix of Kiwis, some internationals, some on visas. Not everyone was actually eligible as well which is part of the story and issue in Queenstown.’’

The 20 new staff would join the group’s 120 existing employees – none of whom were made redundant during the Covid-19 outbreak.

With the bar 70 per cent completed before lockdown, the group decided to push ahead with the opening.

‘‘We had second, third and fourth thoughts about opening due to Covid but at the end of the day we were 70 per cent complete . . . Since May a dozen local trades and critical suppliers have been busy completing the work for opening.

‘‘There is general excitement crossed with apprehension around the uncertainty Queenstown’s tourism industry faces.’’

Ferg’s Bar was the fourth brand in the group’s portfolio.

‘‘Fergbaker opened in an adjourning premise in 2011, followed by Mrs Ferg, the group’s gelato stores, opening in 2014 and 2016. Finally, in 2020 – the year most of us want to forget – most of us are going to remember it because we have opened Ferg’s Bar. It’s great and it is a beautiful accompaniment to the rest of the precinct.’’