Eighty Eight Valley Road, Wakefield, Tasman

One of Nelson’s oldest sheep stations, less than an hour’s drive from Nelson, is for sale for the first time in 161 years, presenting a stunning opportunity for new owners. Highfield Station is elevated in Eighty Eight Valley, near Wakefield, a magnificent property of rolling pasture and higher country behind its homestead. The 754 hectare sheep and beef farm has only ever been owned by the Hunt family, who began its development in 1862. It’s no wonder the family have cherished this property over six generations, such is its majestic setting, looking out towards Tasman Bay and Mt Arthur (and Pepin Island on a clear day), a haven of peace and tranquility.

The property offers a two-storey homestead, renovated 50 years ago, with a garden setting of natives and palms and incorporating tennis court and swimming pool. There’s a second, similar-age house of four bedrooms, numerous out-buildings, the original woolshed, open and covered yards for sheep and cattle, a variety sheds and an old cottage. An air strip, with fertilizer bins, provides capacity for top-dressing. The Hunt family have farmed and nurtured the property as a sheep stud and as sheep and cattle fattening farm. The property has a carrying capacity of around 5,000 stock units.

Everything you need to continue this tradition, or branch out into something new. Water supply is from clear springs in the hills behind, providing reliable supply. Along with the farming is an enriching family lifestyle with fabulous stands of native trees, abundant bird life, tennis and a swimming pool. A school bus stops at the farm gate and there’s a vibrant community in Wakefield for sports, arts and crafts and all manner of leisure activities. Head to Rainbow ski field or the Nelson lakes for a day out. The Hunts have been careful guardians of the land and Richard, the last of the family owners, will happily assist new owners to make the transition to new beginnings at Highfield Station.

Contact Fritz Horlemann for an appointment to view.