It’s not every day that a truly iconic property – simply bursting with history – comes along, but Riverina, at 46 Wilson Road in Warkworth certainly fits this bill.
Originally constructed around 1901 by local cement works owner Nathaniel Wilson and his wife Florence, the home is now well into its second century. It served as accommodation for American troops during World War II, and later for road workers.
Its most recent owner, the late Beverley Simmons, purchased the property with her husband Ron in 1969, as a holiday home.
At the time it had been neglected and was derelict, with a dead sheep in the front room. History-loving Beverley relished the task of bringing her grand old lady back to life – while keeping its intrinsic Italianate villa spirit intact.
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“We took out seven truckloads of rubbish including old engines and a dinghy,” she told Local Matters in 2010. “By Easter the house was more or less cleared of detritus, and then the work really started.”
Much of the house was reconstructed and strengthened, the roof and a top floor veranda were replaced while the large concrete porch was also rebuilt.
Beverley always enjoyed finding appropriate furniture from the era for the interior. Following Ron’s death, she eventually moved into Riverina permanently in 1987 and became famous locally for her entertaining skills. It is said she was partial to a glass of whisky and always dressed for the occasion.
Dianna Coman, who is marketing Riverina, says that while she was tidying the grounds recently, prior to photography for the listing, a number of passers-by stopped to share their memories of the much-loved local landmark.
The most recent owner, the late Beverley Simmons, purchased the property with her husband Ron in 1969, as a holiday home. Photo / Supplied
Built around 1901, the home - known as Riverina - served as accommodation for American troops during World War II and later for road workers. Photo / Supplied
She expects plenty of interest in the sale and while the home’s heritage status means any future renovations will need to be carefully planned and consented, there is potential for purchasers to put their own mark on the property, particularly in the kitchen and bathrooms which are exempt from the stricter conditions and can be properly modernised.
With four bedrooms and two bathrooms as well as several living areas comprising a family room, separate lounge and a huge dining room, the home’s décor is true to its period. New wallcoverings would instantly add extra charm, and the vibe is pleasant and airy with an extra-high stud contributing to the impressive sense of space.
Meanwhile, there are large storage areas at the rear, housed in rustic outbuildings.
Agent Dianna Coman says the home’s heritage status means any future renovations will need to be carefully planned and consented. Photo / Supplied
The grounds in the 5.84ha property are well-established with a level lawn for children and pets to play on, while camellia trees add a touch of colour. Photo / Supplied
The house looks particularly pretty when it’s lit up at night and the grounds are well-established with a level lawn for children and pets to play on, while camellia trees add a touch of colour.
46 Wilson Road is located in an elevated position right at the edge of town and enjoys sweeping views of the surrounding farmland.
Warkworth is known as a very friendly and welcoming community with some excellent boutiques and cafes located in the bustling town centre. Access to Auckland is easy these days if a new owner was planning to commute.
46 Wilson Road in Warkworth, Rodney, is for sale by tender, closing November 27.
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