This story was prepared by PGG Wrightson and is being published by the New Zealand Herald as advertorial.
Gilt-edged farmland in Matamata primed for equine development.
PGG Wrightson’s rural real estate specialist Trevor Kenny knows his stuff when appraising farmland and lifestyle properties. He says this parcel is one of the best he has seen – and for good reason. It has location for starters – right on a prominent sweep of State Highway 27 in Matamata. Around 67ha (165 acres) of prime grazing – in close proximity to Matamata Racecourse.
Highly regarded for its equine industry, with the pasture here recognised as highly nutritious, it is little wonder the industry continues to grow. Kenny says with Singapore earmarked to close its racing industry down, more breeders are looking to New Zealand. Matamata is known as the home to winners and Kenny envisages this property is headed in that direction.
“This is a stunning and often-admired parcel of land – in a location envied by most and on the open market for the first time in years.”
Kenny says it is ideal for an elite thoroughbred racing establishment.
“The land features a flat contour with fertile, free-draining sandy loam soils – making it perfect for equine activities. Currently operated as a beef fattening unit with some equine fencing, the property also benefits from an excellent water supply.”
Conversion to equine would be easy as a start-up, unless a savvy investor saw better value in developing an establishment of substance. Current buildings include a converted dairy shed – now covered cattle yards. There is a five-bay implement shed with high-stud loose boxes; a separate six-bay utility shed and a vet shed. There are also outdoor equine boxes for horses and three large concrete feed bunkers.
While Kenny says this blue-chip property offers multiple land-use possibilities – from cropping and farming to horticulture – he still believes its destiny is in the equine sector.
“With vision and investment, it could be developed into one of the finest equine facilities.”
Matamata revolves around racing. Sitting in the heart of the Waikato basin in central North Island, New Zealand and en route to Cambridge and Auckland via the expressway, travel commutes to other racing centres are a breeze. Auckland, with its international airport is only around two hours. On the other side, Tauranga, Taupō and Rotorua are all around an hour’s drive away.
From a lifestyle perspective, Matamata boasts its own unique appeal. Excellent schools, fine dining and recreation. Either exploring the walkways, cycle trails, or tramping, Matamata offers a fantastic lifestyle – to live, work and play. Also the home of Hobbiton, Matamata’s reputation is worldwide.
The other advantage of this property is the two residences. The main homestead – built in 2013 – is an executive Hinuera stone home with four large bedrooms, free-flowing dining area and bespoke kitchen, with a separate lounge. Adjacent to the home is a four-bay garage for the classic vehicles.
A manager’s dwelling is a two-bedroom residence with separate living quarters above the garage. A shared family venture, perhaps? Or a full-blown investment in a stable and training centre of note, or stud.
Kenny has already put this out to domestic and international markets. Whatever the outcome, he is putting his bet on an equine future.