Commercial Hotel Roxburgh

A firm fixture in the Roxburgh environment since 1864. Though this old hotel is not officially recognised for heritage, it is a good solid block of Otago history and has not budged an inch since a second generation rebuild, complete with some beaut add-ons and alterations.

The 1905 Cyclopaedia of New Zealand provides a classic desrciption:

COMMERCIAL HOTEL (Mrs Harriet A. Heron, proprietress), corner of Scotland and Hawick Streets, Roxburgh. This handsome hostelry is a modern building of two stories, erected in brick, and occupies the leading site in the town, opposite the post office. As one of the largest and most convenient hotels in Central Otago, it provides ample accommodation for visitors and tourists, and the bedrooms are large and well appointed. It has also a commercial room, billiard room, and several sitting rooms, in addition to bathrooms and other conveniences. Special apartments are set apart for ladies. The Commercial Hotel is the stopping-place for Cobb and Co.'s mail coach from Lawrence, and the starting-point for the coaches to Alexandra and Queenstown. In connection with the hotel there is a livery stable, which is also used by Messrs Craig and Co., for their coach horses. The hotel, which was established in Ferry Road, Roxburgh, in 1864, was acquired by the late Mr. H. H. Heron, in February, 1875. Since his death it has been conducted by his widow, who erected the present commodious and handsome building.

The remainder of Roxburgh could also be described rather under-recognised for it's heritage status, a keen eye will have no trouble spotting a generous smattering of cottages of gold mining and settler origin, most in excellent condition and still providing shelter from the elements of Central Otago. With nearby Millers Flat making a play for the passing tourist trade and the advent of the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail, the Commercial Hotel and Roxburgh seem set to remain secure for another century or two.