An “outstanding” opportunity to purchase a large rural property just north of Auckland, currently home to the Sheepworld visitor attraction, is being offered through CBRE.
324 State Highway One, Dome Valley, Warkworth is being marketed by CBRE brokers Deborah Dowling and James Lee, for sale by deadline private treaty closing on May 26, unless sold prior.
The 11.3 hectare property can be purchased either with vacant possession or as a going concern with the existing business included, says Dowling.
“The owner of the property and business is looking to retire, so we’re offering this fantastic, expansive site to the market with flexible options. A buyer could purchase the site vacant and reconfigure it to suit their own needs, or could also opt to take over the existing successful business as an owner-operator.”
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The possibilities for future use of the site are extremely varied, with subdivision consents also in place for three separate titles of 4.6ha, 6.1ha and 6,400msq m. One or more of these could be on-sold as residential lifestyle opportunities, Lee says.
“This property has so much to offer a new owner, including continuing and perhaps expanding the current business, repurposing the property for a different business use, subdividing and selling one or more lots, or even building your dream home – escaping the Auckland rat race and enjoying a tranquil rural lifestyle on this stunning land.”
With so many options on offer, the property will be considered a unique opportunity for investors, lifestylers, business owners, property developers and entrepreneurs with possibilities as broad as the buyer’s imagination, says Dowling.
“The site includes numerous substantial buildings which would easily be repurposed for alternative uses such as an adventure park, events centre, eco attraction or converted into a residence, or even stables for an equestrian enthusiast. There is plenty of flat contour to create all-weather indoor and outdoor facilities and a huge car park at the front.”
Alternative commercial and/or events use would also be readily facilitiated, with an existing café and retail shop on site, she adds.
The existing buildings on site include numerous farm-related facilities, most of which are built with substantial wooden materials in line with the theme of the current farm park. There are also numerous smaller out-buildings, animal shelters, offices and workspaces.
The existing Sheepworld business includes a farmyard park/petting zoo and a nature walk through native bush. As a showcase for sheep and wool production, it gives visitors an insight into sheep farming in New Zealand. As well as being able to get up close to the animals, the experience also includes a live show which allows visitors to watch close-up as the sheep are rounded up by the dogs, sorted and shorn.
The café is currently leased to a separate operator and the on-site shop offers quality New Zealand wool, sheepskin and other products.
Positioned just 1km north of the new Northern Motorway extension, opening in 2022, the property sits within the rapidly-developing Warkworth area and also forms part of the burgeoning Matakana Coast lifestyle and tourist region, Lee says.
“The P?hoi to Warkworth motorway project is expected to provide more consistent travel times and create a more robust and reliable road between Auckland and Northland. This is expected to support local economic and population growth, as well as reducing congestion at Warkworth which will be welcomed by businesses and locals in this area.”
