A detailed replica of an 1890s Wyoming frontier town on the Central Plateau of New Zealand’s North Island has been placed on the market for sale.
Located on 400ha of unspoiled native bush known as Mellonsfolly Ranch, the seller says the frontier-style town is exactly as the name suggests – the folly and passion of a wild west enthusiast who spent four years painstakingly bringing his vision to life.
“Meticulous in detail with furnishings and collectables sourced over many trips to the United States, the commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship is evident, which gives visitors a true feeling that they’ve stepped back in time,” says John Bartley of Bayleys Whanganui.
Billed as an inimitable tourism venture or a private Antipodean haven, Mellonsfolly Ranch was previously listed by the seller back in 2020.
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But, despite attracting a high level of attention from international investors, the sale was put on hold as the COVID-19 pandemic took effect and viewing the property became impossible.
Bartley is now marketing the property for sale again with colleagues Duncan Ross and Knud Bukholt, and expressions of interest are invited before 4pm on Friday, 11 November 2022 (unless sold prior).
The property features a well-worn boardwalk which connects 10 period buildings of the Old West Town, including the licensed ‘Lucky Strike’ saloon, courthouse that doubles as a cinema or conference venue, sheriff’s office, general store and billiards lounge.
Six of the 10 buildings offer well-appointed accommodation for up to 27 guests, a commercial kitchen, laundry and three separate homes for staff or overflow accommodation.
“Some highlights include the 13 guest rooms – each decorated in the theme of a historical figure from the old west, livery/stable with saddle room, and a plenitude of western activity equipment.”
Previously run as a boutique accommodation venue for private functions and corporate events, Bartley says guests have often dressed up in full western regalia to fully immerse themselves in the authentic western experience.
“Staff would prepare cowboy cuisine and offer guests the chance to try their hand at western activities, including gun slinging and horse treks.
“Authentic chattels add to the experience, including a covered chuck wagon, cannon, tee-pees, clay bird shooting machine and shotguns, bows, arrows and targets, air pistols for target shooting, lassos, two-man saws, darts and poker.”
Set amid rolling hills of the Ruatiti Valley between Whanganui and Tongariro national parks with the Mangapurua Cycle Trail nearby, the ranch is home to red deer, fallow deer and wild pigs. Bartley says this completes the remote lifestyle picture for a new owner seeking space and privacy.
The property also accommodates Waterfall Mountain Honey which produces and stores manuka honey from hives located on the land.
“While the honey operation is not part of the sale, the owners are open to negotiations with solutions including a lease back of the land and building for operational needs,” Knud Bukholt says.
“Big-budget television shows like Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone and its prequel 1883 are reviving stories of the American frontier, which I expect will drive interest in the uniqueness and multi-faceted opportunity presented by the property.
“With the world open for business after the pandemic hiatus, it’s an excellent chance to maximise flexible use for leisure and tourism with options including but not limited to; boutique accommodation, a themed tourist attraction, commercial hunting operation, eco-retreat, or a private bolt hole away from it all.
“Deliberately remote, this unique property offers a hidden world of opportunity to connect with nature, and the secluded setting is a beautiful backdrop for night star-gazing.”
Bartley says he expects the property will attract international interest, with prospective purchasers looking to invest in New Zealand with a pathway toward residency.
“With a stable political climate, financial system and green, corruption-free image in a secluded New Zealand location, the property presents a strong option for investors internationally attracted by the country’s balanced service, rural and manufacturing economy,” Bartley says.
- Article supplied by Bayleys
