All hail winter’s early arrive. If you have to venture outside today, take care near ice – and consider playing nice on public transport.
From its construction in 1938 until its conversion to an events centre in the 1990s, Wigram Manor was home to hundreds of New Zealand Air Force officers who dined and imbibed there for decades.
It was their officers’ mess and accommodation for about 90 years leading up to the end of training in 1995 and the closure of the west Christchurch air base in 2009.
The 275-hectare base was then sold for $16 million by the Crown to Nga¯ i Tahu, which undertook residential and commercial developments and sales of some parcels of land including the former officers’ mess to the late John Chivas.
His estate is now selling the restored, 43-room art deco accommodation and function complex through Savills.
The property was likely to appeal to tourism operators who could use it as a base for international guests travelling through Christchurch Airport, Savills agent Ben Cameron said.
It was converted to a function venue in the 1990s and had since hosted royal visits, dinners, weddings and international delegations.
‘‘The complex is also close to expansive new residential and commercial developments in Wigram, making it an exciting proposition for tourism businesses.
‘‘The accommodation and restaurant facilities on the site mean it would work well as a stopover point and gateway for visitors on tours of the South Island.’’
The 2049-square-metre complex, which is on 8782sqm of freehold land, comprises three interlinked buildings housing accommodation over two levels as well as a restaurant, bar and conference facilities.
Forty double rooms are in the two accommodation wings, along with three self-contained units.
Among the restored character features are a ballroom with timber parquet flooring and an art deco ceiling, as well as an anteroom with an original fireplace.
The large grounds include landscaped gardens, lawns and car parking. The original St Marks Chapel, built in 1943, is also on the property.
The land and buildings at 14 Henry Wigram Drive are for sale by deadline private treaty closing on June 1.
The site is zoned for travellers’ accommodation and is near The Landing, Wigram’s new town centre with shops, cafes and restaurants.
‘‘It would work well as a . . . gateway for visitors.’’ Ben Cameron, Savills