The history of distilleries in Waitaki, New Zealand, traces back to the early Scottish settlement in the 1830s, where whisky distilling flourished in areas like Dunedin and Otago. Recognizing their value, The New Zealand Whisky Collection was founded in 2010, acquiring the remaining 500 barrels from the Prestons.
These barrels have been aging at a seaside bonded store in Ōamaru, where they are eventually bottled and branded under "The New Zealand Whisky Collection." A significant milestone was reached in 2019 with the establishment of a new distillery at Speight's Brewery in Dunedin, marking the resurgence of whisky production in Otago, which officially began in February 2021.
While there is currently no cellar door for public visits, various establishments in Ōamaru like the Criterion Hotel, Scott's Brewery, and Bangkok Recipe restaurants offer a selection of these rare whiskies for tasting. Enthusiasts can also find products from The New Zealand Whisky Collection at Liquorland Ōamaru or purchase them through the online shop. This revival of whisky production in Otago signifies a return to the region's heritage as a producer of exceptional single malt whiskies.