132 Old Tai Tapu Road, Kennedys Bush, Christchurch

'Lansdowne' - remarkable blue-chip property

Price by negotiation
Lansdowne is a remarkable, blue-chip property dating from the days of Canterbury's 'First Four Ships': originally part of the property established by 'the Father of Canterbury cricket'; later, where a famous 19th century New Zealand Premier lived, and later still where celebrated architect, Heathcote Helmore, designed his last Canterbury homestead, in arts and crafts style.
Flowing along the property's entire western boundary, the Halswell River together with the property's seclusion behind substantial trees, make the property unusually secure. There have been three Lansdowne Homesteads at the original property and the gatehouse is purported to date from 1875.
The generous sized home robustly constructed in Halswell Quarry basalt and high-pitched Welsh slate roof, nestles in circa three acres of expansive lawns and woodland containing many outstanding heritage trees.
The current owners commissioned the highest quality craftsmanship and have completely transformed the homestead's interior. Highlights include elegant proportions, solid rimu and mahogany features and magnificent Bohemian-crystal chandeliers. Apart from the gorgeous country style kitchen complete with kauri floor, the whole of the exterior of Helmore's design was faithfully retained, with its original cedar framed windows and French doors.
The house's very large 'Golden Room' (a formal lounge/dining/music room) can double as a small concert chamber to seat an audience of 100 and, in that latter formation, has played host to more than 50 classical concerts over the past decade.
The lengthy property is split by a beautifully shaped driveway and the lawns are large enough to land a helicopter. Situated 20-25 minutes from both the City Centre and from Christchurch International Airport, this is truly an outstanding property! For more information please copy and paste the following link into your web browser: https://www.propertyfiles.co.nz/property/5521989