Momoa has hosted several DJ sets since becoming a shareholder in the parent company of the popular bar. Photo / Upstairs at the Bunker
At the time, multiple sources told the Herald the 45-year-old was also house-hunting in Central Otago, raising speculation he may be planning a more permanent move to the region.
Momoa has become a familiar sight in Queenstown in recent years, frequently spotted at local venues, riding his motorcycle around the district and taking part in community events.
Aquaman star Jason Momoa, seen here at Queenstown Airport. Photo / Supplied
He has spoken publicly about his connection to the resort town, telling the Herald last year that he first visited Queenstown in his early 20s and was immediately drawn to the area because it offered “everything I love to do”.
“I came here when I was about 20 years old, and when I landed there, Hawaii is home, but there’s never been anywhere in the world where I’ve ever felt more connected,” he said.
“I can’t really explain it, if it was my destiny, my ancestors … don’t know what it was, but the moment I stepped off that plane I felt it, and I’ve always been drawn to it.”
Momoa says that on a month-and-a-half trip he took as a 20-year-old, he scaled the country from “top to bottom” and ultimately decided it was where he wanted to end up.
“I will eventually move one day, that’s where I’ll live and work. I don’t want to leave – I’m gonna keep coming down. I just love it.”
An avid outdoorsman, Momoa has often shared his time in New Zealand on social media, including mountain biking, snowboarding and touring with his band Öof Tatatá.
His professional links to the country have also grown, with recent filming projects including A Minecraft Movie and the upcoming action film The Wrecking Crew, both shot in New Zealand.