A magnificent and classic Christchurch home built in the decade before the Second World War with five double bedrooms on an expansive 8,358sqm block that even comes with a rugby pitch at 35 Kainga Road, Kainga, Christchurch, is for sale for the first time in its history.

The dynamic team of Ani Tapa and Nick McIsaac-Luke from Raine & Horne Parklands/New Brighton/Shirley/Burwood/Marshlands has listed the unique property behind the Waimakariri River for sale.

“If the walls could talk, they would tell the captivating story of what once was, what is now, and everything in between,” says Ani Tapa.

Constructed sometime in the 1930s, with “1939” etched into a concrete path at the property, the main house is maybe even older. Nick McIsaac-Luke said the home has a curious history.

“This unique property once served as an architect’s office, complete with its own vault – made to look like a “Speakeasy” pub – where engineers’ plans were securely stored. It was the computer server of its time, and today, it offers a fantastic escape.”

This semi-rural location is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, all while being conveniently close to urban amenities.

“Just 10 minutes approximately from Kaiapoi and Northwood Supa Centre, and only about 15 minutes from The Palms Shopping Mall, this property offers the perfect blend of tranquillity and accessibility,” Nick added.

Empty-nesters Reon Tiweka and his wife, Juanita Tiweka (Kai Tahu), who raised a family of eight, have decided to sell the property. Mr Tiweka, a local, developed a passion for the property back in the 1970s.

Mr Tiweka told Stuff[*] that he believes the property may have once been a home for boys. However, about seven years ago, when the nearby land was subdivided for sale by the then-owners, Ecan (Environment Canterbury), the house returned to a private residence and needed some care and restoration.

Mr Tiweka contacted the owner, who was initially surprised by his approach. However, the enthusiastic Mr Tiweka convinced the owner that the property was better suited as a family home rather than just for him to live there alone.

A year later, after the owner had acquired the surrounding land, he checked in with the Tiwekas to see if they were still interested in the property. The couple jumped at the opportunity, with Mrs Tiweka, an avid decorator, leading the renovation charge.

With five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a massive four-vehicle garage and industrial workshop, and a separate cottage that had once been the caretaker’s home, there was plenty of space for the Tiweka’s family of 10.

Mr and Mrs Tiweka have undertaken extensive restorations of the grand 345sqm home, including having the exterior freshly painted and creating a vegetable garden and outdoor entertainment areas. The fully gated property has a fenced paddock, off-street parking for over 20 vehicles, a half-rugby pitch, and a covered swimming pool.

The backyard is dominated by a mature chestnut tree, which provides shade and branches for climbing and hanging swinging chairs.

Ani Tapa said, “Buyers can truly immerse themselves in their own world as they drive through the electric gates into this character-filled home.

“The current owners have created countless memories here, hosting weddings, birthdays, family gatherings.

“Now, they’ve decided it’s time for a new chapter, giving the next owners the opportunity to experience the same joy, warmth, and timeless charm this unique property offers.”

This unique property at 35 Kainga Road, Kainga, Christchurch, is for sale by the deadline of 6 November 2024 at 4pm, unless sold prior.

For more information or to organise an inspection, contact Ani Tapa and Nick McIsaac-Luke at Raine & Horne Parklands/New Brighton/ Shirley/ Burwood/Marshlands on +64 27 301 3870.

[*] https://www.stuff.co.nz/home-property/350452373/christchurch-home-rugby-pitch-and-speakeasy-market-first-time