Veteran Kiwi golf legend tees up farm sale

Legendary Kiwi golfer Sir Bob Charles is selling one of his Canterbury farms. The 102 hectares of free draining, fertile land is at Oxford - some 40 minutes drive west of Christchurch.

“The property has always been operated as an agri’ business investment in the sixteen years that I have owned it,” said Sir Bob, who shot to world fame after winning the British Open in1963.

“My wife Verity and I purchased our first farm in1973 in order to have an income and a business after my professional golfing career. It was effectively our retirement plan. Then the senior tour came along and I played for another 24 years.

“We purchased this property in 1995 as we were in expansion mode. Farming is in my blood and we loved being near the mountains - so Oxford was a perfect choice.”

Sir Bob said that his farm managers, Pat and Bill Foster, had been with him since 1973.

“But with their retirement recently, and me turning 75, it’s time to downsize,” Sir Bob added.

“We’ll retain our neighbouring 233 hectare farm, although that is being leased by tender for a four year period. We’re keeping our homestead on the original 233 hectare farm as I still retain a love for the land and farming”

“The sale and lease of the two farms will allow Verity and I to spend more time with our grandchildren, see more of New Zealand… and hopefully squeeze in the odd game of golf or two.”

Sir Bob’s 102 hectare property is being marketed for sale by Bayleys Canterbury through an auction being held on November 4. Bayleys Canterbury rural sales specialists Chris Jones and Mark Pringle said the land would appeal to a wide range of buyers - especially given its reliable water supply.

“The farm sits in a highly sought-after patch of the Canterbury Plains. Its rectangular shape, flat contour, and dual road access, ensure the land is ideally suited for highly-intensive agricultural or pastoral activities,” Mr Jones said.
The land has a significant irrigation consent drawn from the 132 meter bore. The consent equates to 379mm per season across the whole property. The property is being sold with the 652 metre centre pivot.

“The reliable irrigation, coupled with the free draining soils, makes this a very exciting opportunity,” Mr Jones said.

“A history of fertiliser applications and recent DDT tests are available to potential buyers.”