Peek Inside: Garland Road stunner
Around 40 years ago, builder Les Buckingham finished constructing a home on the edge of Waimate for a local family.
Before handing it over, he asked them to let him know if they ever decided to sell. More than three decades later, they did.
Les’s son, Scott Buckingham, and his partner, Shelley Wilson, ended up buying the house and have spent the past five years enjoying its sweeping views, native birdlife and peaceful position on the edge of town.
Now, with a move to Timaru ahead, the house is back on the market.
“It’s pretty sad to see it go,” Shelley says. “We’re moving to a similar house, but it won’t have the views.”
The best of both worlds
Set on an elevated 1.63ha block, the four-bedroom home has two bathrooms, two living areas and expansive views from the Hunter Hills across rolling countryside to the coast. Mature trees, established grounds and a tree-lined driveway give it a sense of privacy, despite being just three minutes from central Waimate.
Shelley describes it as offering the best of both worlds - close enough to town to make everyday life easy and enjoy the lights at night, but far enough out to feel removed from it.
“What I’ll miss most is the views, but I’ll also miss living in the district. It’s funny because I grew up in Temuka and never thought I’d live here. But I love Waimate - everything’s so easy.”
Shelley found basketball and netball teams and formed a tight-knit group of friends. The choice of schools and childcare available to families has also impressed her.
“Waimate Childcare Centre - it’s the best. The boys loved it. We’ve tried others in different places and nothing compares to it.”
The family keeps the curtains and doors open whenever possible to make the most of the setting. Tūī, kererū and kingfishers are regular visitors, and they even spotted an owl once.
“When the sun comes up, the birds start singing.”
Shelley also loves the direction the district is heading and is excited about projects such as The Waimate Trail.
“Waimate’s on the right route.”
Her advice to the next owners is simple:
“Just enjoy it. Soak in the views and embrace the calmness.”
Location, location, location
Bayleys agents Julie-Anne Davidson and Dionne Haywood say the property’s combination of space, shedding, views and proximity to town gives it wide appeal.
Two four-bay sheds provide extensive storage and workshop space, while a fenced paddock leaves room for a few sheep or a pony.
“For retired farmers moving into town, there’s still room for the tractor and all the toys,” they say.
The separate workshop has power, water, a toilet and additional laundry facilities, which could also suit somebody wanting to operate a business from home.
“The land lends itself to so many possibilities - entertaining, garden walks, enjoying the birdlife or simply making the most of the space.”
For people new to the district, they believe the location will be particularly difficult to beat.
“It would be hard to find another property offering the views Garland Road has at this price, while still being so close to town and the bike tracks. It really is location, location, location.”
