Here at One Network Wellington Live, we bring you stories that capture the heart of our vibrant city. Today, we share a tale of ambition, community spirit, and tough times. It’s about Wilson Barbecue, a Wellington eatery that soared to global fame but recently faced a heartbreaking end. This story dives into their journey, their record-breaking moment, and the challenges that led to their closure. So, let’s explore what made this place special and why its doors are now shut.

Wilson Barbecue sat in the heart of Johnsonville, a spot loved by locals for its smoky burgers and warm vibe. For four and a half years, Blair and Casey Wilson poured their hearts into the restaurant. They built a place where families gathered, friends laughed, and food brought people together. The eatery wasn’t just about serving meals; it was about creating memories. Customers raved about the juicy cheeseburgers and the friendly staff. Yet, behind the smiles, the business faced struggles that many in Wellington’s food scene know too well.

Back in August last year, Wilson Barbecue grabbed the world’s attention. They smashed a Guinness World Record by selling 6,336 burgers in just one day. Imagine the buzz! The kitchen hummed, staff raced around, and queues stretched down the street. People came from all over Wellington to grab a $10 cheeseburger. Some even bought extra to “pay it forward” for others. The event wasn’t just about breaking records. It raised over $10,000 for WELLfed, a Porirua charity helping local families. Casey called it a team effort, saying the community’s support made it unforgettable. That day, Wilson Barbecue proved Wellington’s spirit shines bright.

But fame doesn’t always mean fortune. Despite the cheers and headlines, the restaurant hit rough waters. Running a business in today’s economy is no easy task. Costs keep climbing, from ingredients to rent. Customers, feeling the pinch too, often cut back on eating out. For Wilson Barbecue, these pressures piled up. They fought to keep going, but debts grew heavy. The biggest blow? A massive bill from Inland Revenue, topping $644,000. That figure might even rise with added fees. It’s a stark reminder of how tough it can be to stay afloat.

The decision to close wasn’t made lightly. On April 3, Blair and Casey had to act. They called in liquidators, Richard Nacey and Judith Shields from PwC, to handle the process. Liquidation means selling off assets to pay debts, but it also signals the end. The restaurant stopped trading, leaving 15 staff without jobs. Wages were paid, but holiday pay worth nearly $18,000 remains owed. About 75 other creditors, like suppliers and banks, are waiting for $297,000. Names like Coca-Cola, ANZ, and Z Energy are on that list. It’s a tough spot for everyone involved.

What went wrong? The liquidators pointed to a rough economic climate. Food businesses across Wellington are feeling it. Many face tight cash flow, meaning money coming in doesn’t match what’s going out. Wilson Barbecue wasn’t alone. Other local spots, like Egmont St Deli and Alamir Bakery, closed recently too. The industry is a battleground, with rising costs and fewer customers. Yet, Wilson’s story stands out because of their record-breaking high. It shows how even the brightest stars can dim under pressure.

Let’s step back to that record-breaking day. Picture Johnsonville buzzing with excitement. Families, students, and workers lined up, eager for a burger. The team worked flat out for 15 hours. Each burger sold helped beat the previous record, set by an American YouTuber called MrBeast. Blair and Casey didn’t just want fame; they wanted to give back. That’s why 10% of sales went to WELLfed. By nightfall, they’d done it. The crowd cheered, and Wellington felt proud. Social media lit up with photos of smiling faces and stacked burgers. It was a moment of pure joy.

Sadly, joy doesn’t pay the bills. After the record, business carried on, but challenges crept in. The food industry is tricky. One day, you’re packed; the next, tables sit empty. Wilson Barbecue kept serving their signature dishes, but profits shrank. Suppliers needed paying, and taxes loomed large. Blair was also tied to two other companies, Wilson Barbecue Willis Lane and Smashed Limited. Both went into liquidation too. Smashed, a food truck, had already stopped trading in 2023. It shows how one struggle can ripple across a business.

For Wellington, losing Wilson Barbecue hurts. Johnsonville feels quieter without it. The eatery wasn’t just a restaurant; it was part of the community. Staff became like family to regulars. Events like the record attempt brought people together. Now, the doors are locked, and the grills are cold. Locals are left wondering what’s next for the space. Will another eatery take its place? Only time will tell. For now, the focus is on supporting those affected, from workers to suppliers.

The staff deserve a special mention. They worked hard, especially during that record-breaking rush. Losing their jobs stings, especially in a tough job market. Some might find new roles in Wellington’s cafes or bars, but it’s not easy. The hospitality industry is full of ups and downs. Still, their efforts made Wilson Barbecue a name known far beyond our city. They helped raise thousands for charity and put Johnsonville on the map. That’s something to hold onto.

As we reflect, it’s clear Wellington’s food scene is at a crossroads. Places like Wilson Barbecue show what’s possible when passion meets community. But they also highlight the risks. Running a restaurant takes grit. You need to balance quality with costs, all while keeping customers happy. For every success, like a record-breaking day, there’s a hurdle waiting. Rising prices, staff shortages, and taxes don’t let up. Yet, our city keeps fighting. New eateries open, and chefs keep dreaming.

What can we learn from this? First, supporting local businesses matters. Every coffee, burger, or pizza you buy helps. Second, community makes a difference. Wilson Barbecue’s record wasn’t just about burgers; it was about people coming together. Finally, we see resilience. Blair and Casey gave their all. Even though the business closed, their story inspires. They took a chance, chased a dream, and made history. That’s the Wellington way.

Looking ahead, we hope for brighter days. The city’s food scene is tough but full of heart. Places like Cuba Street and Courtenay Place still buzz with life. New restaurants will rise, bringing fresh flavours. For now, we say goodbye to Wilson Barbecue with gratitude. They showed us what’s possible when you aim high. Their record-breaking day will live on in Wellington’s story, a reminder of a time when burgers brought us together.

At One Network Wellington Live, we’ll keep sharing these stories. We’re here to celebrate our city’s wins and face its challenges. Wilson Barbecue’s journey reminds us to cherish local spots while they’re here. So, next time you’re out, grab a bite at a nearby cafe or bar. It might just make a difference. For now, we thank Blair, Casey, and their team for the memories. Wellington won’t forget you.

This story is for anyone who loves Wellington’s food and spirit. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, keep exploring our eateries. They’re the heartbeat of our city. And who knows? Maybe another spot will chase a record one day, keeping the flame alive. Until then, let’s raise a burger-shaped toast to Wilson Barbecue—a place that dared to dream big.