Saddle up, giddy up, bottoms up
Aikmans Merivale is giddying up for punters taking in a day not at the races.
When it comes to Cup Day in Christchurch, there’s only one place that truly sets the bar for elegance, atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences. A true institution in the heart of Merivale, Aikmans Merivale has been a local favourite for over 30 years. Featuring a spacious courtyard, elegant furnishings, and a constantly evolving menu that stays ahead of the trends, Aikmans sets the standard for celebrating Cup Day in style.
The Aikmans Merivale team have continuously reinvested in the space, ensuring it remains fresh, modern, and always ahead of the curve. Last year saw a refurb ahead of winter, and come this spring, Aikmans will receive another refresh to ensure the venue is as dazzling as ever, in time for Cup Day.
This year, the courtyard will now feature a massive 14sqm screen, allowing you to catch every thrilling moment of the races while sipping on champagne and indulging in expertly crafted cocktails.
Aikmans invites you to take your Tuesday Cup Day to the next level with their exclusive packages. For those who want to go all in, ‘The Podium’ package is the ultimate indulgence. For just $750, you and your crew can enjoy up to 10 guests with two bottles of Moët, two Cup Day platters, two cocktail trees (that’s 10 premium cocktails), and two dozen oysters! If oysters aren’t your thing, you can swap them out for another bottle of Moët. There’s also the more intimate ‘Trifecta Package’ for groups of up to six people.
For those planning to head down to Addington Raceway, kickstart your day with a champagne breakfast, available for just $45 or $55, including a one-way bus to Addington Raceway departing at 11am. That’s breakfast, bubbles, plus a Priority Entry wristband to guarantee you can return after the races and keep the celebrations going.
To really amp up the atmosphere, live music will fill the air all week long, with local musicians setting the tone for an unforgettable Cup Day experience. The races will be shown on the big screen, and live commentary will ensure you never miss a beat.
Aikmans has long been the hub for Cup Week festivities. As one of the largest venues in the area, it’s the perfect place to gather with friends, family, or colleagues to soak in the celebrations. And with the addition of an outdoor Corona Bar this year, the courtyard will be the perfect spot to revel in the spring atmosphere.
The Aikmans Group has also recently expanded with the acquisition of No.4 Bar and Brigittes Sumner.
Beloved institutions, including Brigittes Merivale and No.4 Bar, are within the eye line of Aikmans. If you’re looking for more pre-Cup Day breakfast or post-race celebrations, both of these spots will provide the perfect complement to your Aikmans experience.
As you strut into Aikmans this Cup Day, you’ll be greeted by a scene of spring florals and white picket fencing, by the talented Kim Chan, transforming the space into a picture-perfect celebration of the season. It’s all about luxury, comfort, style, and above all, making sure you have the best possible time. So, don’t wait. Saddle up and secure your spot at the number one place to be this Cup Day.