Hokonui Moonshine Trust Introduces Entry Fees

The Hokonui Moonshine Trust introduced entry fees for visitors to its museum and facilities this week, transitioning from a donation-based model to a formal admission structure on Monday.

The decision was made to ensure the long-term sustainability of the museum. All revenue from entry fees will go directly back into running and maintaining the museum, supporting exhibit upkeep, educational programmes, and the continued sharing of Hokonui’s unique moonshine heritage.

Local residents—defined as anyone living within the Gore District Council boundaries—will enjoy free entry, in recognition of the financial support Gore ratepayers already provide through their rates.

The new fee structure is as follows:

• Adult visitors: $10
• Under 18s: Free (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult)
• Self-directed tour groups: $15 per person (includes free sample of the product)
• Guided Tours: $20 per person (includes free sample of the product) But bookings are essential as it depends on the availability of a guide
• Local (Gore) Tour Groups: Free (no free samples included; donations welcome).

A Museum with a Colourful Past

Located in the Gore Heritage Precinct, the Old Hokonui Moonshine Museum & Distillery celebrates the region’s colourful history of illicit whisky production. The story begins in the late 1800s, when Scottish immigrant Mary McRae and her family settled in the Hokonui Hills, bringing with them a copper and brass still and generations of distilling knowledge.

For over 70 years, the McRaes and other local families defied prohibition laws, producing moonshine in secret and evading police detection. Their ingenuity and resilience have become part of local folklore, with many of these bootleggers now regarded as folk heroes.

The museum brings this history to life through engaging displays, audio-visual exhibits, and authentic artefacts. Visitors can explore recreated stills, learn about the prohibition era, and even purchase bottles of Hokonui moonshine made to the original recipe.

Hokonui Moonshine Trust chair Tracy Hicks said introducing entry fees is a necessary step to ensure the long-term sustainability of the museum.

“Every dollar collected goes directly back into maintaining our exhibits, developing educational programmes, and enhancing the visitor experience. We’re proud to continue offering free entry to Gore District residents, whose ratepayer contributions already help support the museum,” he said.

Visitors are encouraged to check the Trust’s website or contact the museum directly for further

details and booking information.

ENDS

For media enquiries, please contact:

Graham McKerracher Cell: 021 190 6071, Email: [email protected]