Christchurch’s Little High Eatery sold but founders keep stake in new deal

In a dramatic twist for Christchurch’s dining scene, iconic eatery Little High has changed hands in a multi-million-dollar deal – but its founders aren’t walking away empty-handed. The surprise transaction has left one of the city’s most prominent investors stunned into exclaiming, “You’re f****** mad, mate,” after learning the founders would retain a stake in the new venture.

The sale centers around the restaurant’s distinctive corner location at High and Tuam Streets – a property city architect Simon Peebles once famously recommended demolishing. Its unique facade, born from Christchurch’s otherwise rigid grid pattern where streets intersect at precise angles, has become a landmark since Little High opened its doors. The building’s unconventional design, characterized by its tilted frontage, has always been part of its charm and identity.

For the founders, keeping equity represents more than just financial security – it’s about preserving the soul of the place they built. “This isn’t just about bricks and mortar,” one source close to the deal remarked. “It’s about keeping the Little High magic alive through this transition.”

Industry observers note the deal signals growing confidence in Christchurch’s post-earthquake revival. The city’s evolving culinary landscape continues to attract significant investment, with established players like Little High serving as both anchor and innovator in the region’s food culture.

Read the full story on NZ Herald.