In 2018 Margaret and Mike Webster bought a 4.3 hectare property on the northern outskirts of Marton.

They had long admired the classic 1908 villa, particularly in the latter years of their 25 year farming career in Turakina Valley, having regularly passed the property on the route to and from town. As Margaret explains, with retirement coming into view, their focus on the property increased.

“When the house came up for sale, we were interested, though the previous owners withdrew it from the market after only a short time. We quickly fell in love with it. We both love gardens, and this house has a wonderful garden, and we loved the style of the house. It was what we were looking for,” she says. 

Built as a farm homestead, the house had been maintained to an immaculate yet original condition by its previous owners. Margaret and Mike were not daunted at the withdrawal of its listing from the market: they made an offer anyway, which was accepted. Once they moved in, it quickly became the location for many new memories for the couple, particularly when their three sons and four grandchildren came to visit. 

“We re-wired the whole house; added a new deck and kitchen in keeping with the period style of the rest of the house; and we built a new garden, planted in multiple colours. 

“We brought in bees, owned by Down Under Honey, and planted beautiful trees for them and for the native birds; Mike grew roses; and we lambed ewes,” says Margaret.

Although she still loves it, having lived in the house by herself for three years since Mike died in 2019, Margaret has taken the decision to downsize.

“I have so many lovely memories. It’s time for me to move on and make new memories somewhere else,” she says.

Jacqui Campion of PGG Wrightson Real Estate, Marton is marketing the property on Margaret’s behalf. She says it is a special home.

“This is a gorgeous property with the rare ambience only these superb villas exude. 

“Its new owner will gain immense pleasure entertaining on the large front veranda, while the children play cricket on the expansive front lawn; guests will be awestruck at the original pressed ceilings in the two divine formal lounges, where the large windows invite a dappled sun to give the native wood its distinctive glow; the grand entrance is typical of this era and a splendid way to welcome visitors in style; while a light, sun-drenched office or sunroom looking out to the garden is an intimate place to enjoy a reflective moment.

“Seldom do properties of this character and calibre become available so close to town,” says Jacqui.

On two titles, of 3.9 and 0.4 hectares respectively, the property has potential for development.