Staying true to the genuine values of the quintessential Southern man comes naturally for newly appointed Speights Ale House manager Sam Harpur.
He’s just a few weeks into his new role and already relishing the chance to lead one of Invercargill’s most popular establishments.
“I’m really excited to be part of such an iconic brand – I’ve grown up around Speights and the ideals it represents,” Harpur said.
“We want to make the Ale House a country tavern in the middle of town. That’s what our goal is – a genuine, relaxed space with a friendly vibe.
“That’s often what’s missing in a city – a place which really feels like your local.”
Harpur, 37, grew up in Invercargill before heading north to study in Christchurch. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science, a stint in Wellington saw him immersed in the arts industry where he even worked on lighting for the award-winning movie, Avatar.
While the diversity of the arts scene was exciting, Harpur discovered his niche while working part-time in hospitality.
“I love being around people. Everyone wants to find that job that’s not really a job and I find with hospitality you don’t mind going to work,” he said.
After venturing back south in 2016, Harpur joined the team at the Mataura Licensing Trust and has spent the past two and a half years managing the Pioneer Tavern in Edendale.
“There’s considerably less gumboots in my new role,” he quipped. “There were times at the Pioneer where you had to work your way through them all just to get in the door but that’s a good sign for a pub.”
Familiar with the concept of licensing trusts, Harpur valued the role the organisations played in the community.
“I was keen to broaden into a bigger challenge and you have to take a chance when it’s there,” he said.
“It’s great to be part of an organisation like the ILT which is both giving back and adding to the community. There’s some exciting developments ahead.”
He was eager for the Ale House to stay loyal to its origins.
“There’s a lot to learn and the brain is going a million miles an hour but it’s great,” he said.
“I’m not a walk-in-and-change-everything kind of guy. I like to see where things can improve and make changes that need to happen, not just for the sake of it.
“And we’ve got a great bunch of staff here. I’m sure any new manager says that anyway but in this case it’s actually true.”