One of the first homesteads built in New Zealand that has been carefully curated and is located on a vast landholding is being offered to the market for sale.
Located at 1453 Dunback-Morrisons Road near Palmerston in Otago’s Waitaki District, Waihemo Grange serves as a testament to the region’s pastoral heritage.
Constructed in the 1860s, the 400sq m private residence sits within a 164.38ha high country run and other on-site improvements include an equestrian area, cattle yards and large utility shed, modern stock water system, and subdivision of the paddocks.
There is also an orchard with a collection of fruit trees, including peaches, nectarines, apples, and pears, among others.
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The property, where the residence is recognised as a Category 2 Historic Place, is 2km from the settlement of Dunback, while the town of Palmerston is approximately 10 minutes away.
Dunedin is 62km south and can be reached in under an hour, while Oamaru is 67km to the north.
Colliers Rural Sales Advisors Ross Robertson and Helen Flintoff have been exclusively appointed to market the property for sale with the deadline for offers closing at 4pm on Thursday 19 March, unless sold prior.
Standing in a mature garden setting in the Waihemo Valley at the base of the Kakanui Mountains and overlooking the Shag River, Waihemo Grange includes a stone residence that is architecturally and aesthetically impressive.
The home, which has a signature grand entrance anchored by an eye-catching front door and wrapped by a charming veranda, unfolds across three distinct wings, each offering flexibility and scope for a range of living arrangements.
The spacious home has multiple bedrooms, a media room, and a secondary dining space alongside other key comforts.
Robertson, Rural and Lifestyle Sales Advisor at Colliers, says the property is steeped in history and gives buyers the chance to acquire a unique and authentic asset.
“With origins dating back over 160 years when it operated as Run 109, the property has been in the hands of some of the area’s most well-known families that were involved in local or national politics such as the Kitchener family.
"Each owner has left their mark and contributed to its character,” Robertson says.
“The recent renovations of the historical homestead just over 10 years ago have left it in excellent order, and the dwelling has been designed to suit a broad array of needs.
“The farm is set up to operate as a cattle fattening property and looking ahead there is scope for it to be positioned as a farm stay tourist accommodation destination or for short-term stays.
"The dedicated equestrian centre is a unique feature that will add further appeal for buyers.”
Nearby Palmerston, which sits on State Highway 85, rose to prominence as a service town during the Central Otago gold rush and nowadays supports farming and draws visitors to scenic spots like Tavora Reserve, one of the region’s most impressive coastal hikes. Dunback also has its own historical places and a unique swing bridge.
Macraes Mine, New Zealand’s largest active gold-producing mine, is approximately 30 minutes from Palmerston and is a major employer in the region.
Flintoff, Rural and Lifestyle Sales Advisor at Colliers Otago, says this is a rare heritage asset that is nestled in picturesque surroundings.
“Palmerston offers access to key amenities and services as well as primary and secondary school opportunities. Further afield there are boarding schools in Dunedin and more secondary schools in Oamaru.
“Having the chance to acquire a property of such historical significance is one that is not to be missed.”
- Supplied by Colliers
