Paradise brought to life

This landmark Mt Biggs home unites the best of the Edwardian and Art Nouveau building styles and has been lovingly restored to meet the needs of modern families, without sacrificing its original character. Linda Miller investigates.

When Spencer and Margaret Morris relocated from Wellington to the Manawatu 20 years ago, it was love at first sight the moment they clasped eyes on Greenlea estate. “We have enjoyed Greenlea because of its heritage - the house is a local icon full of historical context, its natural and peaceful surroundings, and the scope for entertaining family and friends. Many visiting from the big cities or overseas call it ‘paradise’,” they explain. Built around 1914 from the finest heart native timber, the home was considered modern for its time and took three years to complete. The end result was simply breathtaking and has been magnificently preserved by owners past and present. “A common utterance from first time visitors when the step through the front door is ‘wow’. There’s a generous entrance lobby that opens out onto a wide hallway. The native timbers give off a warm glow and the stained glass windows complement this.” Space will never be an issue in this four bedroom home, with two lounges, a large dining room, a billiards room with a full size table, a library or study and a farm-style kitchen with easy flow out to the wraparound veranda. “We spend as much time outside as possible enjoying the garden. Our neighbour’s sheep graze the paddocks but lifestyle farming is an option for future owners. The bird life is amazing and an apiarist has placed a number of high producing bee hives in one paddock so there is an abundance of fruit trees and free honey!” Despite the daily delight Spencer and Margaret still receive from their property, an empty nest and looming retirement plans have led to them seeking out a new custodian for this special place. They believe it will appeal not only to those who enjoy entertaining or have a large extended family, but also anyone looking for a business opportunity that encompasses boutique accommodation or special events – with the couple occasionally utilising it for weddings, garden tours, and private functions, as demonstrated on their website www. greenleahomestead.co.nz. “We like to say that you don’t own Greenlea, you are part of its story and that you care for it for future generations. “We know that there will be buyers out there that will have the same love and passion for this unique and special property – we just need some help to find them.”