The licensed restaurant at Longlands Farm in central Matamata.
The licensed restaurant at Longlands Farm in central Matamata.
In the past two years 26,000 visitors . . . learned about the agriculture industry, saw livestock and heard about running a farm.
An award-winning restaurant and function venue specialising in boutique weddings and farm visits is on the market for sale.
Longlands Farm and Restaurant, in central Matamata, comprises a highly-regarded restaurant, venue hire and tourism business, and homestead on 14ha of picturesque farmland. Catering to the flourishing tourism market, Longlands has a reputation for providing quality facilities and services to international and domestic customers.
The restaurant operation is regularly hired as a wedding and boutique events venue. It is also a tourism business hosting farm visits.
The freehold land, buildings and business have been placed on the market as a going concern for sale through Bayleys, via a private deadline sale closing on April 14.
The elegant and restored homestead is included in the sale.
The purpose-built and licensed restaurant specialises in fine rural cuisine; it has been a popular destination for locals and visitors for the last 30 years. Situated next to the homestead, the restaurant has a full commercial kitchen, fitted out in a style suited with the country environment.
The restaurant, which caters for inbound tours and special events, has served an average of 13,000 dinners guests each year. It is supported by a farm visit operation offering an opportunity for visitors to learn about a working farm. There are 18 contracts in place for tourism experiences with inbound tour operators hosting international visitors, with full restaurant services and catering options. As part of the experience visitors learn about the livestock and agriculture industry, see livestock, and hear from the owner about his experiences running a farm. Visitors then enjoy a traditional Kiwi lunch. In the past two years there have been more than 26,000 visitors to the farm.
The restaurant has a reputation for quality, said Graham.
"Since opening, the restaurant and farm have won numerous local and national awards, including: a Matamata-Piako District Council Business Excellence Winner, Telecom Matamata-Piako District Council supreme award winner, Grand Pacific Tours Favourite Attraction, National Tourism Award Heritage and Culture Winner. The business is also Qualmark accredited - Tourism New Zealand's official mark of quality."
Longlands has also built a strong reputation as a boutique function venue for corporate events, weddings and special occasions, said Graham.
On average it has hosted 50 events a year such as charity auctions, and jazz concerts, and can cater for up to 100 guests. Renowned for creating "weddings with style", full wedding and reception facilities include venue hire, catering and staff, with extensive parking for guests.
An aerial view of Longlands Farm and Restaurant.
The private, tranquil landscaped grounds featuring mature trees, roses, and lavender borders, with views of the farm and out to the Kaimai Ranges create the perfect setting for intimate gatherings and special occasions, said Dixon.
"This is a stand-out business in terms of the level of quality, facilities, service and striking location. It provides a stunning setting, tailored event options and experienced staff who ensure they deliver the dream day for guests," he said.
The elegant three-bedroom homestead has been restored with careful attention to detail. It is positioned back from the road and is surrounded by trees and garden to providing total privacy. Within the grounds are a double garage, large swimming pool and private garden, and beyond, this the farming block features extensive storage sheds, excellent fencing and farm water supply.
The property and business have potential for a number of uses and development options.
"These include, building an accommodation facility, subdividing the land, structuring the business into a lease investment opportunity, or developing the 14 ha into residential development, tourism expansion or an aged-care facility."
"This property offers a well-refined business with three established revenue streams. There are multiple growth options for an investor or owner/operator to take to the next level, all while enjoying a highly sought-after lifestyle in a beautiful part of New Zealand."
