Now that's a sales pitch: Homestead with rich history and private cricket pitch

'Bankhouse' , a property for sale in in Marlborough's Waihopai Valley 02 March 2016 Photo supplied to the New Zealand Herald by Bayleys CREDIT : Bayleys

A historic homestead, owned by one of New Zealand's first MPs and boasting one of only two private cricket pitches in the country, is for sale.

The 57.19ha property, known as Bankhouse, in Marlborough's Waihopai Valley, has a heritage-listed house originally owned by Sir David Monro, who became a member of Parliament in 1854.

The heritage-listed house originally belonged to Sir David Monro, who became a member of Parliament in 1854. Photo / Bayleys

In 1868, it was reported an illicit still was discovered in the manuka scrub and the ex-manager was charged and convicted.

Bankhouse, as it stands now, was built around the 1900s. It has a floor area of 342sq m and a veranda of 130sq m.

The 301sq m cricket pavilion is kitted out with a balcony overlooking the pitch, a commercial kitchen and team changing rooms and shower facilities. The property also has established trees and wetland areas.

It is on the market for sale through a tender process closing on March 18.

Bayleys Marlborough agent Kurt Lindsay said the property was a cricket fanatic's dream.
"This property brings a whole new meaning to backyard cricket, with the pitch designed to comply with international regulations," he said.

The 301sq m cricket pavilion has a balcony overlooking the pitch. Photo / Bayleys

"Meanwhile, the pavilion is also set up for serious competition and catering, with two team changing rooms, each with built-in bench seats and shower units. It's as good as, if not better, than many of the provincial stadiums around New Zealand."

The kitchen has a Garland six-hob commercial cook plate and oven, stainless steel benches and a walk-in chiller.

"The pavilion is a compelling events site, and not just for cricket matches, with the long stretch of glass doors opening out to overlook the cricket oval and wetlands below," Mr Lindsay said.

"With a commercial-grade kitchen, the new owners can develop this feature of the property to host numerous functions and events."

The property included planning consent for a proposed residential subdivision of 20ha, with a proposed B Class Wairau River water right, providing potential to establish a productive economic vineyard if required.

"The homestead is a slice of New Zealand history, as one of the original Marlborough sheep runs, and its layout reflects that, with a maid's room, dressing room, scullery, butler's pantry, a maids' lounge, servants' lounge, and a grand hall adjoining the main family residence."