Interest in a unique offering of land holdings has been "outstanding" says property consultant Pat Turley.
The level of enquiry was also "a little bit surprising to some, given the uniqueness of the properties."
Tenders close September 24 on the redundant holding paddocks, retired gravel reserves, grazed woodlot and sections. Sizes range from an 814sq m Makaretu rural section to a 0.677ha woodlot planted with English trees.
"An encouraging number of local building companies see the portfolio as an opportunity to buy a collection of sections for house and land packages for entry-level homes on rural sections," PGG Wrightson agent Max Lyver said.
Confidence in the Ruataniwha Water Storage project proceeding meant there was a good opportunity for capital gain, he said.
Mr Turley said building on a Central Hawke's Bay Council rural-zoned property was in some ways easier than building in town. There were no title-registered building covenants to restrict the nature of building, re-locatable houses were permitted and the large size of the sections gave many building and lifestyle options.
Mr Lyver said interest was received from as far away as China and Australia.
At a combined council valuation of just $75,500 "people see an opportunity to buy an affordable piece of dirt in the country."
Council CEO John Freeman said the properties were being sold because they served no community or council purpose and did not qualify as investment assets.