In 2019, when Tracy O’Connell first set eyes on the Edwardian era Parore homestead, the old kauri dame required plenty of work and restoration.
Unoccupied since 2015 and receiving little love for several years prior, the 1910 built three-bedroom farmhouse villa was tired and dated inside, while the grounds were badly overgrown. Fortunately, rather than focusing on the dilapidation, Tracy only saw the allure, the high ceilings, timber detail and tranquil location. Without hesitation she bought the house, and the 13 hectares it sits on, then set to work to refurbish its faded charm.
“This was my ticket to escape from Auckland. It’s been a haven, and I love it. I love the countryside, the peace and privacy, and the space. As well as a lovely stand of native bush, the history, character and vintage charm of the property provide the magic formula,” she says.
Renovation included everything, inside and out: a new kitchen, laundry and bathroom, rewiring and insulation, two new heat pumps to go with the log burner and open fire, plus interior and exterior paint jobs. Outside, Tracy gradually tamed the wild, unkempt gardens, bringing out their serenity and calm.
Now the job is done, and Tracy is ready for a new challenge, meaning that, somewhat reluctantly, it’s time to hand on her ‘happy place,’ which is where Megan Browning of PGG Wrightson Real Estate, Dargaville comes in. Megan describes the property as a charming blend of character and comfort.
“Originally a farmhouse, it was occupied in its early days when the property hosted servicemen returned from World War One and waiting for their balloted land. The recent renovations, new chattels and finishes, all undertaken with an eye to quality, have turned it into a desirable and inviting space.
“Outside, a substantial woolshed, tractor bay and calf rearing area offer practical amenities for farming or lifestyle pursuits, and the property’s size, in a series of paddocks, provides scope for a new owner to explore beyond its current use.
“Its picturesque natural setting includes a QEII covenanted block of approximately 4.4 hectares, comprising kauri, rimu, totara and native bush, while a series of dams enhances the gardens that provide a serene and peaceful retreat,” says Megan.
Tracy says the woolshed, now with its stands removed and a space converted to a ‘man cave,’ dates back to 1915.
“Each season the shearers inscribed their names and dates inside on the timber walls, which trace from when the house was built through until at least the 1970s. When wool was at its peak, we understand local farmers brought sheep here from other properties to be shorn, taking advantage of the cover that the woolshed and yards gave,” she says.
While Tracy has a few Wiltshire sheep, the neighbouring farmer has kept the land tidy by grazing young steers and bulls. She reckons other alternative uses would be possible for a new owner.
“It still has plenty of unrealised potential, and maybe could be used to farm heritage breed animals, or horses, or breed dogs. With the privacy, there is plenty of scope.”
Presented as a deadline sale, unless sold prior, offers for the property, which is located 12 kilometres north of Dargaville, must be submitted before 2.00pm on Wednesday 30 October.
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