Old West frontier town lucky strike for investor
A detailed replica of an 1890s Wyoming frontier town on the North Island’s Central Plateau has been placed on the market.
Located on 400ha of native bush known as Mellonsfolly Ranch, the seller says the frontier-style town is exactly as the name suggests – the folly and passion of a wild west enthusiast who spent four years painstakingly bringing his vision to life.
“Meticulous in detail with furnishings and collectables sourced over many trips to the United States, the commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship is evident.
“It gives visitors a true feeling that they’ve stepped back in time,” says John Bartley of Bayleys Whanganui.
Billed as an inimitable tourism venture or a private haven, Mellonsfolly Ranch was listed by the seller in 2020. Despite attracting a high level of attention from international investors, the sale was put on hold as the pandemic took effect and viewing the property became impossible.
Bartley is marketing the property for sale again with colleagues Duncan Ross and Knud Bukholt. Expressions of interest are invited before 4pm on Friday, 11 November, unless sold prior.
The property features a well-worn boardwalk which connects 10 period buildings of the Old West Town, including the licensed Lucky Strike saloon, a courthouse that doubles as a cinema or conference venue, sheriff ’s office, general store and billiards lounge.
Six of the 10 buildings offer well-appointed accommodation for up to 27 guests, a commercial kitchen, laundry and three separate homes for staff or overflow accommodation.
“Some highlights include the 13 guest rooms – each decorated in the theme of a historical figure from the Old West, livery/stable with saddle room, and a plenitude of western activity equipment.”
Previously run as a boutique accommodation venue for private functions and corporate events, Bartley says guests have often dressed up in full western regalia to immerse themselves in the western experience.
“Staff would prepare cowboy cuisine and offer guests the chance to try their hand at western activities, including gunslinging and horse treks.
“Authentic chattels add to the experience, including a covered chuck wagon, cannon, teepees, clay bird shooting machine and shotguns, bows, arrows and targets, air pistols for target shooting, lassos, two-man saws, darts and poker.”
Set amid rolling hills of Ruatiti Valley between Whanganui and Tongariro national parks, with the Mangapurua Cycle Trail nearby, the ranch is home to red deer, fallow deer and wild pigs.
Bartley says this completes the remote lifestyle picture for a new owner seeking space and privacy.
The property also accommodates Waterfall Mountain Honey which produces and stores ma¯nuka honey from hives located on the land.
Bartley says he expects the property will attract international interest, with prospective purchasers looking to invest in New Zealand with a pathway toward residency.