Big SI estate suits luxury lodge
Nestled in a secluded valley in North Canterbury sits an historic estate which real estate brokers say is a unique piece of the province’s history.
Tipapa Estate, in Greta Valley is one of North Canterbury’s best kept secrets, according to the national director of rural and agribusiness for Colliers International, Shane O’Brien.
“And now the owner has reluctantly decided to sell it.”
O’Brien says the property is hidden from view up a long drive by a stretch of lush mature trees. Spanning over 25ha, the Heathcote Helmore designed Tipapa homestead is thought to be one of the finest period houses in the South Island. It has five spacious, beautifully proportioned ensuite bedrooms and large interconnected living and entertainment areas opening onto the garden.
Originally part of the large Motunau Run, O’Brien says Tipapa was first settled in 1888 by a wellknown landowner of the time, William Acton Adams, a prominent lawyer and financier from Christchurch. Totalling 4000ha, it was one of the original grand estates of the South Island.
“The current woolshed, now used as a sought-after events venue, was built in 1890 with the current homestead built in 1928. The family crest remains in the entrance porch etched in marble,” says O’Brien.
“Part of the 127-year-old woolshed has been meticulously restored, and is a wonderful refurbishment of a working woolshed into a successful event centre.
“It has hosted more than 15 weddings each season.”
The woolshed has also hosted corporate events and dinners, the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, New Zealand Opera, as well as wine, food and fashion events.
Next to the main woolshed, the original stables and shedding complex has been converted into a gallery, office or boardroom plus small cottage, retaining all the original character of a bygone era surrounded by large trees in a private rural setting.
A complete refurbishment of Tipapa was undertaken in 2004, with rewiring, re-plumbing and new central heating system providing a warm comfortable home but retaining the character and influence of its original grand design.
“The result is a mansion of tasteful elegance, looking onto landscaped herbaceous borders, rose gardens and rolling lawns,” says O’Brien.
“The owner travels frequently and so can no longer do justice to the compact estate.
“It’s an incredibly beautiful, peaceful place, and is equally suited to either a private residence, a working farm or an events centre. It really is wonderful.”
O’Brien says the picturesque property will have wide appeal.
“Boasting a generous 670sq m of high quality accommodation, Tipapa offers the discerning buyer a home that could equally be an up-market lodge, exclusive bed and breakfast or commercial enterprise.”