Remote chance
New Zealand’s most detached bach for sale.
The last time this South Island bach was on the market, New Zealand troops were fighting in World War II.
But after 75 years in his family, co-owner Peter Bowmar reckons the time has come to give it up.
‘‘Well of course, it’s a reluctant sale, but the reality is that it’s time for the next generation to come along,’’ he says.
‘‘It’s fairly straightforward, really. It’s one of the most unique properties in Fiordland National Park.’’
The three-bedroom traditional Kiwi bach – situated on 1012 square metres of freehold waterfront land, and
powered by a diesel generator –is nestled on the shores of Lake McKerrow, inland from Martins Bay, and is one of only 25 privately-owned sections within Fiordland National Park.
The only way to get there is by air, boat or by walking along the nearby Hollyford Track.
Bowmar believes the sheer remoteness of the location will be it’s biggest drawcard.
The property has a rateable value of $200,000 – as of September 2015.
Bayleys Cromwell salesman Gary Kirk admits the bach’s location might prevent possible buyers from attending open homes.
‘‘By the same token, it’s utter remoteness is what makes this place so appealing,’’ Kirk said. The bach is located in an area called Jamestown, founded in the 1870s on the shores of Lake McKerrow near the bottom of the West Coast.
The government of the day proposed building a paper mill, ship building industry, mining operations, and 100 homes.
But after seven years of inaction, the handful of Jamestown residents abandoned their homes and headed back to civilisation.
Since then, nearly all of the original Jamestown structures and sections have been reclaimed by rainforest.
The remoteness means flying in by helicopter or by using your own boat from Milford – less than two hours crossing the Martins Bay mouth. Fixed wing aircraft landing is also available.
it’s utter remoteness is what makes this place so appealing Gary Kirk