A shipping office turned Queenstown cafe

Our building started life in 1869 as the NZ Railways Shipping Office, before making the journey to the Frankton waterfront in 1936.

During restoration, the original shipping office sign turned up hidden upside down. It hangs inside today, right where we found it.

The Boat Shed Cafe opened here in 2013, and we've spent the years since getting to know the building properly.

This year we gave the space a refresh, working closely with the Wakatipu Community Maritime Preservation Society to make sure the history stayed exactly where it belongs: everywhere you look.

Take A Trip Down Memory Lane

1869 - 1878

Originally built near what is now Steamer Wharf in central Queenstown, the building began life as a goods store.

1902

New Zealand Railways began using the building as the ticket office for Lake Whakatipu's steamer service. connecting people and goods around the lake.

The Boat Shed

1936

Bought by Dunedin lawyer Fred Duncan as a family home, the building was transported via Walter Peak to its current location on the Frankton track.

1936 - 2000

The building was used as a lakeside home and holiday cottage known as Lilac Cottage, affectionately named after two lilac bushes at its entrance.

2011 - 2013

The building was carefully restored, with an emphasis on repairing its original character. In 2013, the restored site was officially reopened by the Prime Minister, ready for its next chapter.

Today

Around 90 years after arriving on the Frankton waterfront, the old railway office is still welcoming people through its doors. Only these days, it's for coffee, breakfast and a seat by the lake.

Over 150 years of history,
with plenty more to come.