Surrounded by impeccably manicured gardens and mature flowering trees, a spectacular heritage homestead is a lifestyle hunter’s dream on the edge of the Lake Hood recreational area near Ashburton, Canterbury.
Built circa 1880 and listed as a Grade II historic building with Heritage New Zealand, the commanding property at 33 Farmstead Lane has been immaculately brought into this century, bridging the gap between character beauty and luxurious comfort.
The Riversdale Homestead features four bedrooms, multiple living areas, an in-ground swimming pool, asphalt tennis court and equestrian facilities.
Bayleys Ashburton salesperson Mike Preston says the estate and its nearby farm buildings are the only heritage-listed properties in the immediate area, providing rare surviving examples of colonial architecture.
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“It is an exquisite example of character elegance, tastefully modernised by successive owners to function for modern families.
“Brimming with features, the home is an unparalleled lifestyle proposition for those searching for value beyond urban confines,” he says.
Built to the highest standards of the time by skilled craftspeople, the home is a haven of natural materials, including brick sourced from nearby Longbeach and native timber flooring.
“Period features have endured thanks to careful restoration and care, sitting harmoniously with contemporary additions, delivering a timeless sophistication and modern country lifestyle,” he says.
Set back from the road on a sprawling rural site of 8.622ha (more or less), the homestead invites visitors in through the grand entrance and central hallway, which lead to the sunlit and generously proportioned bedrooms.
Interconnected living areas offer sweeping garden views and access to multiple al fresco areas.
Preston says while the property is packed with features – think the games room, multiple living spaces and swimming pool – the undeniable heart of the home remains its traditionally styled chef’s kitchen with scullery and central island.
“Our sellers have loved entertaining at Riversdale and have equally enjoyed the tranquillity of summer evenings on the veranda listening to twilight birdsong with the sun escaping beyond the Canterbury Plains.
“There is a seamless connection to the outdoors, aided by sheltered verandas, sun-soaked patios, and pristine gardens.
“Additionally, the property features various outbuildings, including full equestrian facilities with a tack room and sand arena,” he says.
A three bay shed provides garaging for vehicles, with a supplementary 218sq m (more or less) fully-enclosed shed for toys, boating and equipment.
Just over an hour’s drive from central Christchurch, the property sits adjacent to the Lake Hood residential and recreational area, known for year-round water sports, walkways and cycling trails.
“There is dining at the Lake House restaurant and an abundance of amenities in the Ashburton town centre, including sporting facilities, event centre, boutique shopping, eclectic restaurants and the nationally recognised Ashburton Art Gallery.
“Quality family homes of this magnitude, with a heritage element and such a spectacular setting, are tightly held, and we expect this rare opportunity will create immense interest from urban homeowners looking to upgrade their lifestyle.
“The entire Canterbury region has seen tremendous growth, supported by strong migration (both international and domestic) and continues to provide value for purchasers seeking space, amenities and access to some of the country’s most spectacular natural features.
“Nearby rivers Ashburton, Rakaia and Rangitata are great for fishing, Lake Heron, Lake Camp and Lake Clearwater are fantastic for boating, and we have the Mount Hutt ski area an hour inland offering year-round recreation – which must be followed up by a visit to the recently opened Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa.
“It’s a phenomenal place for families to enjoy an innately New Zealand lifestyle, and an incomparable opportunity to own a slice of Kiwi heritage,” he says.
- Article supplied by Bayleys
