Sir Paul Holmes' Mana Lodge sells to NZ buyer

SOLD: Sir Paul Holmes' Mana Lodge at Poukawa was marketed as a "luxury property". PHOTO FILE

The late Sir Paul Holmes' Mana Lodge in Poukawa was sold last week by Harcourts real estate.

Harcourts Rural Lifestyle Consultant Christine Thomas said the property was sold in under two months, having previously been listed with Bayleys Realty Group.

When asked what the main drawcard was for the buyers, Ms Thomas said "What's not to love about Mana Lodge?"

"Mana Lodge is a very special place and holds a special place in Hawke's Bay. It lives up to its prestigious name," she said.

Sir Paul called it his "treasure". Lady Deborah earlier said: "It has been a sanctuary for our family for 15 years but we feel it's time for another family to enjoy it, or an opportunity for someone to add value to the wonderful lifestyle accommodation and function business that we have created," she said.

The couple were married there in 2003 and it was the site of Sir Paul's investiture, held two weeks before his death in February 2013.

Ms Thomas said Mana Lodge was marketed as a "luxury property"; its history, privacy and "Tuscan" landscape making it an attractive site.

"I'm happy with the sale. Harcourts have gotten behind myself and the rural team here," Ms Thomas said.

She confirmed the buyers were not from overseas but would not disclose what part of New Zealand they were from.