22 Oct 2025

The Hunterville locals who bought their local pub

From Nine To Noon, 9:20 am on 22 October 2025

The historic Argyle in Hunterville has re-opened after two years, after a group of locals banded together to buy and renovate it. The Argyle has long been part of the fabric of the central North Island town. Established in 1885, it burned down twice. 

After the second fire, in 1947, it was rebuilt in its current Art Deco style. The idea to bring it back to life was sparked by local man Hamish Cavanagh - and it's safe to say locals were onboard. 78 people have invested. With the company governed by five shareholder-elected directors. The renovated Argyle Hunterville is now open, with a cafe, garden bar and eatery, as well as three retail spaces. 

There's also a campervan park out the back for out-of-towners who might want to stay awhile. Hamish Cavanagh is on the line from Hunterville.

The Argyle Hotel in Hunterville.

The Argyle Hotel in Hunterville. Photo: Supplied