Colonial homestead in New Zealand, abandoned by UK owners, looking for love

No-one is building houses like this anymore, which makes it all the more sad that this majestic homestead has been abandoned for the past six years.

The colonial beauty in Swannanoa, north Canterbury, New Zealand, known as Northwood, was last sold in 2011 to a family living in Britain. But due to changed personal circumstances, their dream plans for relocation fell through.

Now, they need to sell, says listing agent Mitchell Roberts of Harcourts Twiss-Keir Realty in Christchurch.

“There is a perception that because the property is large it will be expensive, so many people feel they can’t take it too seriously. But the owners’ instructions are very clear, that this property must be sold and all offers will be considered.”

The 540-square-metre, six-bedroom mansion with huge return verandas on two levels has loads of character – it has been restored over the years to be in keeping with the period, but with all mod cons.

The 540-square-metre, six-bedroom house is now up for sale, with all offers considered. Photo: Harcourts-Twiss Keir Realty

The rooms may be empty, but they’re spacious, with magnificent formal living areas, a grand staircase, high ceilings and large sash windows. And there’s a lot of beautiful wood panelling, polished timber floors, crystal chandeliers and stunning park-like views. 

The kauri and rimu timbers on the interiors were milled in the Nelson bays area and shipped to England for finishing before coming back to Christchurch.

Autumn is an especially magical time of year at the property. Photo: Harcourts-Twiss Keir Realty

Facebook follower Nicholas Dallyn commented on a post by the listing agent. “This was my old family home in Fernside which I renovated and sold – amazing piece of NZ history built in 1885!”

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High tea for two? The magnificent top-floor veranda captures the park-like views and all-day sun. Photo: Harcourts-Twiss Keir Realty

Potential buyers can live a truly country lifestyle on 4.7ha – there are even stables and a dressage area, as well as barns, storage areas and paddocks.

Roberts says the property is for sale by negotiation – there’s an open day planned for Sunday, July 2.

– stuff.co.nz

The original kauri timber was shipped from Nelson to England in the 1880s, to be handcrafted and finished before being shipped back to Canterbury. Photo: Harcourts-Twiss Keir Realty

Forma living areas are spacious, with beautiful French doors opening out to the garden. Photo: Harcourts-Twiss Keir Realty

This traditional bathroom even features a colonial-style slipper bath, positioned beside the window. Photo: Harcourts-Twiss Keir Realty

The property encompasses a massive 4.7ha and includes two paddocks, stables and a dressage area. Photo: Harcourts-Twiss Keir Realty