A historic Christchurch residence located on Mansfield Avenue in Merivale is being offered free of charge by developers, provided a buyer is able to relocate the property. The 120-year-old home, spanning approximately 320 square meters on a 1,535 square meter section, currently stands in the path of a planned redevelopment.
M Group, the developer managing the site, acquired the property for NZD 3.8 million with intentions to demolish the existing character home and build six new standalone houses in its place. The proposed homes would be approximately 230 square meters each, two stories high, featuring three bedrooms, spacious living areas, media rooms, large master suites with walk-in wardrobes and ensuites, as well as oversized double garages. The designs also include lifts to accommodate accessibility needs, targeting downsizers wishing to remain near Merivale Mall and the central city.
Sean McCrory, director of M Group, acknowledged significant interest from individuals and organizations with the land and resources to undertake the relocation. He emphasized the company’s preference to preserve the house through removal rather than destruction. “We’re not looking to make any profit from the house,” McCrory said, noting that the company might contribute financially to the removal costs. “The house is effectively free for whoever wants to take it.”
Despite the offer, relocating the four-bedroom, three-bathroom home is a complex and costly endeavor. The century-old building lacks modern conveniences, requires considerable maintenance, and may need additional upgrades after relocation to meet contemporary living standards. McCrory described the home as “a wee bit old” and noted the challenge of maintaining a large and older property.
The site also includes an astro-turf tennis court, and the subdivision plan reflects a broader trend in Christchurch’s premium suburbs, where large original plots are increasingly subdivided to accommodate demand for downsizer-friendly standalone homes. McCrory explained that while many downsizers opt for townhouses, there is a market gap for those seeking detached homes within the same neighborhood.
Situated in an area where many original large sections have been subdivided or redeveloped into higher-density housing, this property represents one of the few remaining opportunities for new standalone homes in Merivale. M Group aims to meet this demand with thoughtfully designed residences that prioritize space, accessibility, and proximity to amenities.