Air force property with wings

From its construction in 1938 until its conversion to an events centre in the

1990s, Wigram Manor was home to hundreds of air force officers.

It was their 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 and weddings.

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.

The two accommodation wings include 40 double rooms and three selfcontained units.

Among the restored character features are a ballroom with timber parquet flooring and an art deco ceiling.

The large grounds include the original St Marks Chapel, built in 1943.

The land and buildings at 14 Henry Wigram Drive are for sale by deadline private treaty closing on June 1.

Chris Hutching