Country: A pure-bred property

By CEDRIC GRAY

A beautifully appointed, pure-bred Hereford stud in Horseshoe Bush Rd, 14km north of Albany, is creating interest. Properties of this size so close to Auckland are seldom for sale.

Ridgefield Farm comprises 43.9170ha of flat-to-rolling pasture. Divided into 20 well-fenced paddocks, the property has three road frontages.

The six dams and a small stream provide ample water and, while cattle have been raised on the land for the last six or seven years, it is equally suited to horses or sheep.

Mature trees in every paddock provide good shelter. There are excellent stock yards, a loading ramp and several well-maintained outbuildings.

The jewel in the crown is the stately English manor-style home with six bedrooms. Built in brick and tile, it occupies a central site at the end of a long drive and is surrounded by well-groomed lawns and gardens. There are glorious rural views to the north.

The focal point is a lovely kidney-shaped pool with an attractive paved courtyard. The facilities for outdoor leisure include a bar and servery, and changing rooms complete with a sauna room, showers and a toilet.

The formal entry to the house leads to a huge lounge, a family dining area and a farmhouse kitchen with two ovens. Two staircases lead to the first level, where the bedrooms and a study are located.

A notable design feature is the smooth, comfortable flow between the family dining area and the formal rooms, as well as the ease of access to the courtyard, which is beautifully landscaped with gardens and mature trees, palms and shrubs.

There is a neat, open-plan, two-bedroom unit in the same style nearby. It has its own courtyard and play area, and a single garage. A third dwelling of two bedrooms is attached to one of the farm outbuildings, which provides comfortable staff accommodation.

The property carries a government valuation of $1.175 million and is for sale by tender through Albany Real Estate. Tenders close on March 16. Contact Lynn Honour on 415 9206 for details.