115 Takapu Road Manakau, Manawatu-Wanganui

A chance to live the country life, this unique home will captivate you from its first glimpse along the driveway. A fully restored villa, over 100 years old, complete with covered verandahs and stained glass windows. From the turret there are commanding views of the Tararua ranges and Kapiti. This home is a fine example of period character, yet offers the convenience of modern comforts.

Just consider the lifestyle options this wonderful home presents. Work from home, lease out the paddocks from some extra income, use it as a weekend retreat - or take advantage of the central location and commute to Wellington, a BnB or similar maybe. The list of possibilities is endless.

Featuring beautiful native timbers throughout, there are four generous sized bedrooms, bathroom with a clawfoot bath and separate shower and the other with a shub. The large open-plan living area consists of a well-equipped kitchen with pantry, double dish-drawer and 5-element gas hob, through to the dining room, then lounge area with wood-burner and TV room or study. Underfloor and ceiling insulation provides extra winter warmth. There are lovely rural views from each room and great separation and privacy for family members within the house.

Plus a large 48sqm upstairs room and turret might be used as a studio for painting, writing, music or perhaps as additional guest accommodation.

An impressive outdoor entertainment area contains a BBQ, wood-fired pizza oven and seating under a grapevine-covered pergola. Relax in the family-sized spa pool while the family plays cricket on the lawn with the kids in the playground area.

Near the house are garden boxes for veges and herbs, a chook house and orchard with a great mix of fruit and nut trees. Outbuildings include four car garaging, woodshed, workshop, two barns, utility shed and animal shelters.

Set on just over 2.5 hectares (6.4 acres) of fully fenced paddocks on the border between Kapiti and Horowhenua, an area known for its mild climate and fertile soil, you could lease out the land for grazing or cropping.

Combined with a small valley and pond surrounded by native plantings this is a picture perfect venue for weddings or events.

The homestead is approx 10 mins drive to either Otaki or Levin, Waikawa beach is just 5km away and Wellington and Palmerston North are both approx one hour's drive away. The new SH1 upgrades are making the capital city even more accessible.