One of New Zealand’s most exclusive legacy estates is on the market for the first time in more than a century.
Located just 10 minutes from the heart of Wānaka, Barn Pinch Farm is an incomparable property with a rich history and postcard-perfect 360-degree views across Lake Wānaka and the magnificent Southern Alps.
The estate was originally part of the Wānaka Station, a vast farm owned by famous Wānaka philanthropists Sir Percy and Lady Lucy Sargood that extended from Albert Burn on Lake Wānaka to halfway up the Cardrona Valley and towards Cromwell.
In 1960, what was to become Barn Pinch Farm was transferred from Sir Percy and Lady Lucy to their granddaughter, Jill Blennerhassett.
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Over the following 60 years, Jill and her husband John transformed the 34.43-hectare estate, starting with planting hundreds of trees on what was a very blank horticultural canvas.
Over the decades, they established many variants of nut, exotics like oak, eucalyptus and pine, and edibles including quince, pear, apple and mandarin. Today during spring and summer the property is lush and green, while in autumn the canopy explodes in a brilliant display of red, orange and yellow.
Then Jill planted an olive grove. The fruit was harvested by friends and family with rakes and sent to a processing plant in Cromwell to be pressed into oil for sale.
Various accommodations are sprinkled across the property and has been used as a mix of permanent and holiday homes over the years.
Many happy couples including All Black hero Richie McCaw and his wife Gemma have exchanged vows on Barn Pinch Farm.
In 2014, on the advice of a marriage celebrant friend, the Olive Grove Wedding venue was established – an exciting business venture for the couple who were approaching their 80s.
Since then, many happy couples including All Black hero Richie McCaw and his wife Gemma have exchanged vows on Barn Pinch Farm.
Various accommodations are sprinkled across the property and has been used as a mix of permanent and holiday homes over the years.
The homestead features two bedrooms, two living areas, three bathrooms and two self-contained sleepouts. Another two-bedroom dwelling, affectionately named “Billie’s Cottage” after Jill’s mother, provides more room for guests and extended family.
The homestead features two bedrooms, two living areas, three bathrooms and two self-contained sleepouts. Another two-bedroom dwelling provides more room for guests and extended family.
In 1960, what was to become Barn Pinch Farm was transferred from Sir Percy and Lady Lucy Sargood to their granddaughter, Jill Blennerhassett.
Outside, the landscaped courtyard garden, swimming pool and pergola, and tennis court and grandstand (a nod to Jill’s love of tennis) are all effortlessly integrated into the spectacular scenery and provide plenty of year-round entertainment options.
Conservation was a high priority for Jill and John too, with a Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Covenant and Te Kākano Nursery contributing to the land’s preservation.
Bayleys agent Graeme Donaldson, who, along with the Bayleys Canterbury team, is marketing the property, says it is a unique and privileged opportunity to bring Barn Pinch to market.
“After more than 100 years, the long-standing custodians now seek new stewards for this exclusive property,” Graeme says.
“This rare heritage property offers an exceptional lifestyle opportunity for a private owner. With preservation efforts and the captivating Olive Grove enhancing its appeal, Barn Pinch stands as a true legacy where families can gather for generations to come.”
- Sponsored by Bayleys
