By John O'Hare

Hayes Engineering – the historic oasis at Oturehua in Central Otago and favourite stop-off for cyclists on the Otago Central Rail Trail – caters for all visitors from everywhere; even the four-legged kind.

Just ask Jimmy – the faithful canine companin of Bill May. Both he and Jimmy are regulars at Hannah’s Cafe, which serves up the tastiest coffee and kai to visitors to the historic property, a Tohu Whenua which is cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.

Once the home and property of millwright and engineer Ernest Hayes, Hayes Engineering has become a kind of living shrine celebrating the inventiveness and ingenuity of Ernest and his descendants. The still-functioning workshop was originally used by employees to manufacture Kiwi farming equipment; products, like the now iconic wire strainer, which are still used on farms today.

It’s also the perfect ‘local’ for people like Bill – and for the hundreds of people passing through during summer. For Bill, Hayes Engineering is a great place for a brew – and Jimmy has a standing order for two marshmallows.

The fact that Hayes Engineering welcomes dogs and their owners is pretty significant too.

“Dogs are often a treasured part of the family and it’s important they’re also well looked after,” says interim Property Lead Sarah Sharp.

“We welcome well-behaved dogs to the cafe garden, provided they’re kept on a leash and their owners keep an eye out for them. Fresh water and pats are provided. They’re not however permitted in the heritage grounds or buildings so owners need to make provisions if they wish to tour the site.”

Aside from being closed on Anzac Day, Hayes Engineering is open for people to explore every day over Summer and Autumn.

And on Sundays visitors can see the machinery in action on a tour led by Ken Gillespie, providing an amazing opportunity to see the extraordinary range of ‘down on the farm’ mechanical technology in full flight.

Guided tours take place every Sunday at 1.30pm until June. Places are limited to 26 people per tour and admission is $20 per adult ($10 children over 14). Afterwards, visitors are able to explore the beautifully restored 1920s mud brick Hayes Homestead and grounds at leisure. The much-loved Hannah’s cafe and gift shop is also on-site, offering great coffee and fabulous home-made food.

Bookings for the operational tour are essential. Please contact Hayes directly on 03 444 5801 or email hayes@heritage.org.nz

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