One of Marlborough’s most admired and longest held farms sold in March.

Raidale, a 322 hectare low input, self-contained Rai Valley dairy farm, producing around 200,000 kilograms of milk solids per annum from 440 cows had been in the Couper family since the 1860s. Offered for sale in a joint listing by Joe Blakiston and Greg Lyons of PGG Wrightson Real Estate, Blenheim, Raidale was purchased for $7.3 million by an existing dairy farmer from outside the region.

Raidale Farm - drone

Joe Blakiston says Raidale has numerous outstanding features.

“Widely regarded as Rai Valley’s best dairy farm, it has plenty of potential and shows the stewardship of a dedicated farming family whose tenure stretches back multiple generations. Adjoining the Pelorus River and comprising a milking platform of 202 hectares, including irrigation and an upgraded 26-a-side herringbone milking shed, the farm’s well-developed tracks and laneways enable easy access to all parts of the property. Renowned as a summer-safe farm with over 2000 millimetres of rainfall per annum, Raidale features a quality three-bedroom homestead set on an elevated site with magnificent rural views.”

Raidale - pggwre agents

While the rural property market has been challenging in recent months, Joe Blakiston says this may be on the turn.

“Rising prospects for dairy look set to initiate increased listings and sales in spring and summer. Whatever market conditions prevail, a premium quality farm like this one will attract interest, and the purchasers have recognised the potential that Raidale offers,” he says.

Retiring to Nelson, the Coupers will be much missed in the district, says Joe Blakiston.

“Owen and Lina Couper have farmed Raidale on their own account since 1996. Their contribution to the local community has been outstanding, and as the last Coupers to leave Rai Valley, their departure is the end of an era,” he says.

Raidale - tractor and people

On 23 April the Raidale clearing sale, staged by PGG Wrightson Livestock, turned over in excess of $500,000.

“It was the Tasman region’s largest clearing sale in decades, drawing a crowd in the hundreds, including buyers from as far south as Canterbury. Several people noted that the day was more like an A&P show. Given farming’s current challenges, the sale was well timed as a boost for community morale.

“High quality farm machinery was the highlight. Three near new John Deere tractors sold on the day with a top price of $140,000, while the onsite barbecue did a flourishing trade, also serving as a fundraiser for a local youngster heading overseas for a sporting event,” says Joe Blakiston.