Will you take this wedding venue . . .
Amagical Central Otago wedding venue — comprising land, buildings and the commercial operation being run there — is on the market for sale. The 1942sq m freehold property, at 735 Racecourse Rd, Omakau, is the base for the business trading as “Central Otago Country Weddings”.
ABC business sales agent Sami Chesterton says a range of high-end amenities on-site include a fourbedroom homestead. This is rented out to wedding parties, and promoted as tourist accommodation.
Meanwhile, the wedding/conference facility on the property, known as “The Woolshed”, was fully renovated for commercial use four years ago.
It has seating and is fully consented to serve up to 140 wedding (or conference) guests at a time. It is licensed to serve alcohol and includes a commercial kitchen, bathroom and office facilities.
“The owners live off-site and rent out the homestead to both wedding parties and Air B&B clients,” says Chesterton.
“The venue, called ‘The Homestead & Woolshed on Racecourse’, has been hosting about 20 to 30 events-per-year.
“However, with approval to host up to 50 events-per-year, the room for growth is evident,” she adds.
“The events hosted here certainly make the most of an awesome Central Otago location.
“In fact, as a wedding venue this one lacks competition from any similar operation in the district, offering comparable experiences.
“There are spectacular 180-degree valley and mountain views, providing a superb backdrop for photos.
“So also, do the well-planned grounds, which are a mix of exotic plantings, a cottage garden, natives and strategically placed props.
“These gardens are particularly stunning in the colourful autumn and spring months.”
Built in 1905, the 215sq m homestead comprises:
● four double bedrooms,
● two bathrooms,
● an open plan kitchen with a large Aga, dining room and gas fire.
● a further lounge area with wood burner
● Decor in keeping with the era of the house, beautiful soft furnishing and period style fixtures.
Chesterton says while the property lends itself to events-based activities (corporate, large group or family functions), it would equally make a wonderful home or lifestyle property.
There’s abundant room for projects, or a small cottage industry business.
She notes that the tourism industry in the Central Otago region is based around wine, food and fun.
“And this operation is perfectly situated to tap into the tourist dollars being spent locally on wine and rail trails. Property here is also highly desirable in itself, with both local and international buyers competing to buy a slice of paradise.
“Overseas investors see New Zealand as a ‘safe haven’ and this has been reflected in the massive increase in property prices in the Central Otago Region over the last five years.”
Chesterton points to a wealth of attractions on offer within a 2.5 hour drive-time from the venue. Omakau is a mere five-minute car journey, and larger townships like Cromwell and Alexandra are only a little further.
“This is a location where you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity that this area is renowned for. But quite close at hand, you still also all the services and facilities required.”
She says the nearest airport is Queenstown, about an hour and 15-minutes-drive away, offering both internal and international flights. The nearest city is Dunedin (about two hours and 15 minutes’ drive), a city with a strong cultural heritage, and one regarded as the gateway to the beautiful Otago Peninsula and the Catlins.
Present owners Judy and Andrew fell in love with the property four years ago, she adds.
“They immediately saw the potential to renovate the woolshed and start up a function venue business.
“The homestead had been beautifully maintained and had a recent addition, enlarging the kitchen/dining area, so the woolshed was where Judy focused her attention, transforming it into a beautiful function venue.
“Judy runs the events allowing two days for each one and further time throughout the year to show the venue to prospective clients and managing bookings. She utilises a welldesigned website, social media and wedding expos to promote the venue,” says Chesterton.
“However, maybe the most effective marketing has come from hearty word-of-mouth recommendations from people attending weddings or events at this property.”