Picture-perfect country property has it all

TENDERS CLOSE on December 12 (unless sold prior) for a spectacular lifestyle property near Feilding that combines a historic home with pictureperfect grounds and 27 hectares of outstanding farmland.

Maranoa, at 41 Mangapipi West Rd, Waituna West, is for sale for the first time since 1989.

The three-bedroom villa with a weatherboard exterior and copper spouting was built in 1888, measures 248 square metres and includes a separate guest wing that’s been used for bed-andbreakfast accommodation.

The property featured in the June 2010 issue of NZ House & Garden magazine because of its botanic splendour, which has been the backdrop for weddings and includes a small lake and 100-yearold copper beech, oak and horse chestnut trees.

Every room has views of the garden and landscape, and everything, from the electrical wiring to corrugated iron roof, has been updated to modern specifications, Richard White, of Property Brokers Wanganui/ Rangitikei, says.

‘‘The owners have made structural changes, and moved living areas to maximise sunlight and views of the garden, while retaining the villa’s traditional ambience and character, including the original high timber ceilings.’’

The large formal lounge has bay windows with distant mountain views and an open fireplace, the dining area and hall have timber panelling, and the family room has french doors to a veranda/patio with extensive views over lawn to specially planted avenues of trees.

The modern entertainer’s kitchen is open-plan with the dining area and includes induction cooking, Bosch electric and microwave ovens, and a rangehood and dishwasher.

The spacious main bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite, with both a shower and large bath, and opens to the garden (as does one of the guest rooms).

Other features include a study that could be a fourth bedroom, the main bathroom, a separate toilet, separate laundry, woodburner with wetback, solar water heating, HRV and security systems, double garage and three storerooms.

Mr White says the predominantly flat farm with its free-draining kiwitea soils has been used to finish Fresian bulls for the American market and includes a woolshed, cattle yards, 1500-bale hayshed and large character implement shed with extensive loft.

‘‘This is a property that will appeal to farmers, gardeners and homestay operators alike because of its alluvial soils, fantastic vistas, breathtaking grounds and high standard of improvements.

‘‘As the owner says, it’s a fantastic family home while being big enough to host as many as 100 people.’’