(Commonwealth) _ In the heart of a quaint village boasting a mere 110 residents and renowned as a favored midway stop on the Otago Central Rail Trail, multiple historically significant properties are up for sale. Among these offerings are Oturehua’s esteemed hotel, its iconic general store with rights to the local post-run, and several accommodations. The decision to sell coincides as the current owners’ aim to retire. Agent Sally Taylor from PGG Wrightson clarified that the simultaneous listing was purely coincidental. However, she highlighted this as an opportunity for prospective buyers to infuse fresh perspectives into the village. Oturehua draws benefits from its status as a hotspot for tourists traversing the rail trail. Moreover, it holds significance as a pivotal stop along the well-regarded National Tourism Map-Central Otago touring route and is notably associated with the famed “Bonspiel” outdoor curling event. The historic Oturehua Railway Hotel, erected in the 1800s, serves as the village’s sole pub and restaurant, offered for sale at $749,000 plus GST, encompassing the business, land, and structures. Prospective owners have the option to reside in the three-bedroom dwelling onsite at 3352 Ida Valley-Omakau Road. Additionally, they can lease out the self-contained one-bedroom guest lodging, catering to passersby.
This hotel stands as a central gathering place for locals, farmers, contractors, and tourists alike. It caters to guests residing in the various accommodations nearby, offering an evening dining experience that garners substantial bookings due to the limited evening options in the vicinity. Across the road, the original 1899 Gilchrist family home, boasting three bedrooms, alongside adjoining bed and breakfast accommodations catering to six individuals, seeks new ownership. Included in the sale package are the NZ Post Contract and the general store operations, operating from the neighboring property. This store, which also leases space from the community, features a diverse inventory ranging from food and coffee to souvenirs, complemented by yesteryear’s memorabilia on display. In the heart of the village, the store holds standing orders from local residents outside the town, providing weekly deliveries of essentials like milk and bread a service valued by the community. Agent Taylor highlighted the versatility of the properties, suitable for individuals or larger families seeking to manage both businesses. Interest has already emerged from potential buyers residing in Auckland and even Australia, expressing intent to return home and invest in these businesses.
The historical timeline of property transactions reveals that the hotel underwent its last change in ownership back in 2009, while the general store shifted hands in 2014. Sally Taylor highlighted the unique standing of these establishments within the town’s landscape. Despite their exclusivity, Hannah’s Cafe at Hayes Engineering Works & Homestead Cafe, situated on the outskirts, draws patrons during the summer months, offering an alternative dining spot for visitors and locals alike. Additionally, adjacent to these bustling enterprises, at 3367 Ida Valley-Omakau Road, sits an enchanting three-bedroom, two-bathroom house, currently operating as an Airbnb. This picturesque property, boasting its charm and character, has found itself on the market due to the changing circumstances of its current owners. Listed at $510,000, this residence presents an opportunity for prospective buyers seeking a charming home or an investment in the burgeoning hospitality and accommodation sector within the village. Furthermore, available for purchase are bare land sections varying from 3.58 hectares to 20.33 hectares. The village, situated 40 kilometers from Alexandra, has garnered attention from artists and writers, becoming a favored destination. Taylor highlighted an influx of creatives relocating from the North Island to this area, drawn to its appeal and conducive environment for artistic pursuits.
