Sun, surf and lifestyle block in Gisborne

When well-known Gisborne business couple Karl and Kaye Geiseler bought land in Winifred Street, Wainui 18 years ago, they knew they were on to something pretty special. 

With a hectare of land on the ridge just above Wainui Beach, they set about building a funky home modelled on an American-barn and planted grapes, olives, citrus trees and natives creating an enviable lifestyle property that reflected the way they love to live.  

Keen surfers and Moko the dolphin-watchers, the family has made the most of life in this laid-back coastal paradise and the good vibes echo around the property. 

Karl and Kaye always talked of building on the beach side of their current home on what is arguably one of the most impressive sites in Wainui. From a new home, they’d be able to check the surf without getting out of bed and over many years – with a few glasses of wine – they’ve tossed ideas around for plans that would take advantage of the rural and coastal views. 

But, with the couples’ time increasingly being taken up with three very active children, their involvement with surf and street wear brand Rapu Clothing, plus Kaye’s flourishing Wharf Shed 3 venture and Karl’s work interests, they have decided to streamline their home base. Hence the couple has bought the former Amor Bendall Winery in Moana Road where they intend to build a New York-style loft apartment which will simplify daily life. 

“We really put a lot of ourselves into developing the property in Winifred Street and it is sad to be leaving it but our new place will also be great and we’re pretty excited about a new way of life across the road from the beach,” says Kaye. 

“There’s something about being near the ocean that re-energises you and the beauty of living in Wainui is that we can be at work in 10 minutes. I know many people hanker after a property close to Gisborne city itself, yet far enough away to feel like you are permanently on holiday!” 

Wharf Shed 3 has proven to be a winning project for Kaye who has evolved the venue into a dynamic and popular focal point for events and entertainment at the revitalised harbour-side. The past year has been full-on as she has worked to attract top-class acts to Gisborne and spent time promoting the venue for birthdays, conferences and other functions. 

Meanwhile, Karl has made the news lately for his efforts in supporting tsunami-stricken Samoa and for his Moko-minder role but as a successful businessman, surfer, surf lifesaving stalwart and second division Wainui Demons Soccer Team supporter to boot, there are not enough hours in the day for this Wainui man. 

Rod Chrisp of Bayleys Gisborne says he expects strong interest in the Geiseler’s property given that this building site is the last one left on the beach side of Winifred Street. 

“Property around Wainui is pretty tightly held and given the elevation of this site and the amazing sea views, it’s quite unique.” 

“Also the fact that the land is so well-planted and has established trees and infrastructure means that a new dwelling is going to fit in with the landscape straight away,” says Mr Chrisp. 

The existing five-bedroom home on the property will provide comfortable accommodation for a new owner while plans for a new dwelling are finalised and during the building process. 

“This is a real plus as you can be on-site everyday overseeing the new build. Then, the existing home could be rented out either as a long-term proposition or short-term holiday option. The flexibility and number of options that this property offers up are what makes it stand out,” says Mr Chrisp. 

Photographs of the property belie the size of the building area –“it’s actually really generous” says Mr Chrisp and there’s even room for a tennis court to round out the lifestyle aspect of the address. 

“And if you can tear your eyes away from the sea and those great waves, views from the northern side look into a beautiful valley over farmland.”