Live the country lifestyle just 20 minutes from Gisborne

Two well-located lifestyle properties - formerly part of Waihina Station and within easy commuting distance to Gisborne - will be auctioned in February.

A 4.02 hectare property with a large four bedroom homestead set in an established garden and a productive 13.55 hectare predominantly flat block, are both on the Wharerata Road just over 20 kilometres south of the Waipaoa roundabout.

The freehold properties on good sealed roads are subject to survey - with titles expected by May this year - and form part of a subdivision off Waihina Station.

Tony Rasmussen and Rod Chrisp of Bayleys Gisborne are handling the sale of the properties and they say that 2010 has got off to a busy start with heartening enquiry on rural property and an element of confidence seems to be returning to the rural sector.

“These properties are near the coast and on the fringes of the Poverty Bay flats – two positive attributes that really enhance their appeal,” says Mr Rasmussen.

At 2302 Wharerata Road is a 4.02 hectare block perfect for retiring farmers who still want the benefits of rural living or for a family seeking a peaceful and picturesque environment with all the best that country living offers.

“The spacious four-bedroom 1970’s home is in very good condition and has a solid, family feel to it. Positioned with a northerly aspect, it captures good sun and enjoys a delightful rural outlook,” says Mr Rasmussen.

“There is a large vegetable garden, many specimen trees and a good range of fruit trees – a reflection of the fertile and productive land here. The balance of the land could be planted up into a nice avocado orchard – easily manageable and providing a potential income stream.”

A school bus runs past the gate to a range of Gisborne schools and being just 20 minutes south of the city, it is an easy commute should work commitments continue or for the children’s’ extra-curricular activities.

The larger of the two blocks at 2220 Wharerata Road has previously grown maize, sweetcorn and squash but is currently used for grazing or for cattle finishing.

“There’s a nice little micro-climate sheltered from south or west winds and likely to be frost-free which lends itself to a horticultural usage – maybe citrus or avocados,” says Mr Chrisp, adding that there are productive citrus orchards nearby.

“It’s what I’d call good early country with around 1200mm of annual rainfall, dry summers and warm winters which are conducive to excellent fruit ripening and good sugar levels.”

The property bounds the Maraetaha River and neighbouring properties draw water on a consent basis. Soils are primarily Waihirere silt loam with the balance along the river being Matawhero silt loam.

“Whilst there are currently no buildings or a house on this block, a new owner would have no trouble identifying the ideal spot for a new home – it’s the perfect development opportunity,” says Mr Rasmussen.
“These two properties are also so handy to the coast and the multitude of recreational opportunities on offer in this area. The stunning Young Nick’s Head coastal walkway is not far from this property so the location is enviable. It would be a fantastic place to retire to or to raise a family - away from the city distractions, yet close enough to the conveniences of Gisborne when necessary,” says Mr Chrisp.

“Certainly the early enquiry we have received on both of these lifestyle opportunities shows that the dream of living in the country is still very much alive and well. I think 2010 will be a year of change for a lot of people and the rural lifestyle option has real appeal for those wishing to consolidate their family lives while also looking for new work or income opportunities.”

The two properties will be auctioned as separate lots at Bayleys Gisborne on 19 February.