INDEPENDENT NEWS

Remarkable Coastal Property For Sale

Published: Tue 13 Apr 2010 12:39 PM
Remarkable Coastal Property For Sale At North Island’s Southern Tip
One of New Zealand’s most remarkable coastal properties, commanding exceptional views, is on the market.
At Baring Head, the 284 hectare headland property separates Wellington Harbour and Palliser Bay at the southern end of the North Island, overlooking the harbour, the capital city and the Kaikoura coast.
Listing agent Max Lyver of PGG Wrightson Real Estate says the property, 40 kilometres south east of downtown Wellington, is in unimproved farmland at present.
“Currently underutilised as a pastoral grazing block, Baring Head has the potential for conversion into a secure, private subdivision, lodge or retreat, aimed at the upper end of the market.
“Further development could turn the property into an exclusive private lifestyle estate or the hub of a world-class tourism or hospitality venture.
“With its wonderful panoramic views from the uplifted marine terraces and kilometres of rugged coastline, this is a part of the country that is truly majestic. Its wild beauty, stunning outlook and grand elemental nature make for an exhilarating experience. Coupled with its proximity to Wellington and its seclusion, this will provide unlimited inspiration to potential new owners,” he said.
Previously subject to subdivision plans, the property is currently in the hands of a mortgagee, and has been farmed under lease for a number of years. Max Lyver says as well as its views, Baring Head is well-endowed naturally and has significant heritage features.
“On one side the Wainuiomata River is abundantly stocked with brown trout and on the other there is plenty of seafood for the taking from the Pacific Ocean and Cook Strait.
“At the highest point on Baring Head are the remnants of the bunkers for the World War II guns that once protected the entrance to Port Nicholson, and adjacent to the property is the lighthouse that bears the headland’s name, which has operated since 1935 as an approach light for Wellington Harbour and a coastal light for Cook Strait,” he said.
Lying to the west, as well as its views of Cook Strait, the Kaikoura Coast and the entrance to Wellington Harbour, Baring Head also overlooks a number of rocky coves and sandy beaches.
On its eastern side, the property comprises an area of valley floor bounded by the coast road and bisected by the Wainuiomata River. Separating this land from the coastal area is a steep face, largely reverted to tauwhinu and low scrub. Between this country and the foreshore is a relatively large plateau falling toward the coastline.
While the flat country has been sown in improved pasture, the remaining land is mainly average quality native pastures, with areas of gorse, tauwhinu and scattered scrub.
Conventional fencing subdivides the flats into a number of paddocks, while the plateau is sparsely fenced. Stock water is supplied from the Wainuiomata River.
With relatively good natural fertility, the property has not been fertilised under the current ownership. Since it has been run as part of an adjoining property in recent years, precise stock carrying capacity figures are unavailable.
Baring Head receives rainfall between 1,300 and 1,400 mm per annum.
Tenders are sought for the purchase of the Baring Head property, which has a rating valuation of $1.7 million, with bids to be lodged by 4pm on Friday 11 June.
ENDS

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