TUHITARATA HOMESTEAD – SOUTH WAIRARAPA

Here is a rare opportunity to purchase an historic home and 20 acres, situated 15 minutes south of the Martinborough wine region and just over an hour’s drive by car from Wellington. The property lies between two blocks of covenanted native bush and the homestead stands in a parklike setting with a backdrop of 100 year old oak trees. From the upper storey there are expansive views of surrounding farmland and the Rimutaka, Tararua and Haurangi Ranges.

The homestead, believed to have been built 1875-78, was once part of the large Tuhitarata sheep station, one of the original 5 sheep stations in the Wairarapa (chronicled in A.G. Bagnall's "Wairarapa - a Historical Excursion"). It is believed Governor Grey and other dignitaries were at times guests on the property.

Tuhitarata has been faithfully maintained and restored to enhance the original ambiance and character of a bygone era with all the attributes of modern living. A panelled entrance hall with a stairway leading to two landings is a feature of this compact and comfortable home. The drawing room and family room have panelled ceilings, and a conservatory, which enjoys early morning and late afternoon sun, opens from the family room to overlook the garden and pool.

A formal dining room, billiard room, office, sewing room, large country kitchen, scullery and pantry, bathroom, laundry, and covered rear porch complete the downstairs. The kitchen and dining room open on to a long veranda to overlook the rose garden and oak trees. A Rayburn stove in the kitchen runs reticulated panel heating downstairs. Upstairs are 5 double bedrooms, two of which have single built-in wardrobes. The master bedroom en suite, with a clawfoot bath, can also be accessed from the landing. The second bedroom has an en suite and there is also a third bathroom.

An in-ground swimming pool is an added attraction to the tranquil homestead setting of mature trees, which includes totara, copper beach, maple, walnut, fig and various fruit trees. A small stand of olive trees has been planted on a bank and the free draining soil could be suitable for more olive plantings. An area planned for a tennis court has tile drains in place and the original two roomed "workman's quarters" has been moved to this area. Other buildings include a garden shed with a separate WC, a wood/tool shed, and the original "meat house", which is used to house the salt filtration plant, is beside the swimming pool.

Adjacent to the native bush and in an area planted with specimen trees and bulbs, is a 3 bedroom cottage and large barn. The cottage has previously been used for homestay activity but is now rented out. The barn, with a 93 m2 loft, comprises a workshop, vehicle and implement storage and original loose boxes. The balance of the land is subdivided into 3 paddocks presently leased to a neighbour. Water is connected to the property via a water scheme sourced from the Waihora Stream in the hills to the east of the property.

Centrally located in southern Wairarapa, there is a choice of two country primary schools at either Pirinoa or Kahutara and a secondary school bus passes the gate. Tuhitarata is on the way to Palliser Bay and the Lake Ferry Hotel, for your sunset meal of whitebait fritters and a glass of local wine which can be enjoyed on the veranda.

Area: 8.2700ha (20ac) G.V. $800,000.00 Rates: $1094.15

Tenders close: 2pm 19 November 2004 at 9 Kitchener Street, Martinborough(Unless sold prior)

Inspection: By appointment only.