Charles Halstead was a surgeon and general practitioner in Timaru in the mid twentieth century.
He was a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, delivered more than 3000 babies, and had a distinguished career as a military doctor during World War II. He was also instrumental in saving South Canterbury charitable institution the Bidwell Trust Hospital, which ran into difficulties in the 1970s, though after Dr Halstead’s timely intervention kept it in business, remains in operation today. He built his general practice living in a house overlooking Caroline Bay that also served as his consulting rooms.
In 2007 Jenette and Bruce Borrell became just the fifth owners of Dr Halstead’s house. They have loved living there.
“After Dr Halstead, the house belonged to an obstetrician, Dr Smedley, who also had a surgery here. Patients would come in through a separate entrance, and for a period it was used as a nursing home. From its days serving the medical fraternity and the community, the care and attention to detail the house obviously received is still evident. When Dr Smedley was here patients would give his wife seedlings and cuttings, the likes of rhododendrons and camellias, many of which are still growing in the garden,” says Jenette.
That garden remains a highlight of the property.
“We sit on the veranda, listening to the birdsong, and feel we are in our own mini park. It’s a peaceful oasis. We have opened it occasionally for local garden tours. Anyone who visits is surprised at such a haven, hidden from view behind the front fence,” she says.
In the 18 years the couple has lived there, Jenette and Bruce have also made the home their own, repositioning the kitchen, extending and renovating, as well as installing central heating.
“We walk everywhere. We can be on the beach in six minutes, or at the library, or the cinema. Central Timaru is easily accessible, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants right at hand,” says Jenette.
Now, with Bruce having retired from the optical equipment business he ran for 40 years, and Jenette stepping back from her career teaching dance, the couple are ready to downsize, so have called in Ricky McLeod of PGG Wrightson Real Estate, Timaru to offer their treasured home to the market. Ricky describes the property as a perfect combination.
“This home is a beautiful marriage between heritage charisma and modern living, where classic charm meets contemporary sophistication, thoughtfully designed to harmoniously blend the old and the new. Creating a perfect balance of character and comfort, three spacious bedrooms and two beautiful bathrooms ensure the home provides ample space, whether for a family, or for those who enjoy entertaining.
“Surrounding the home, the botanic-like gardens create a serene sanctuary. Lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and thoughtfully curated landscaping providing a peaceful retreat, making every outdoor moment feel like an escape,” says Ricky.
Located in Sefton Street, Seaview, just north of the Timaru CBD, the property has a listing price of $839,000.
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