HighRidge has a proposal for you

HighRidge in Henderson Valley specialises in the pre-wedding market.

Niche business would suit an investor or owner operator

Aluxurious West Auckland pre-wedding venue and accommodation business built on 4.3ha of landscaped grounds in the foothills of the Waitakere Ranges is for sale.

The boutique Italianate-style villa, at 16 Gum Rd and off Pheasant Lane in the Henderson Valley, is only 25 minutes' drive from the Auckland CBD and specialises in the growing pre-wedding market, with an established standing in the industry.

"This tranquil freehold sanctuary combines the best of both worlds," says Paul Dixon of Bayleys Auckland Central who, with colleague Duncan Ritchie, is marketing HighRidge for sale as a going concern business and property through a tender process closing on December 4.

"The property's accessibility to the city and its spectacular views of the grounds, over the Waitakere Ranges and the surrounding native forest, are a huge drawcard for boutique pre-wedding packages including wedding preparations, photos and accommodation," Dixon says.

Packages can include on-site hairdressers and makeup specialists for the bridal party, a finger food lunch, transport to the ceremony, accommodation and breakfast.

"Since opening in 2008, HighRidge has built a strong name as an event venue, catering to small and medium-sized groups," Dixon says.

Created by architectural designer Bruce Shadwick, the 512sq m two-storey villa built in 2002 reflects Mediterranean sophistication and luxury. The contemporary design features imported Italian porcelain flooring, roof tiles from Spain, locally made cedar window shutters and detailed cedar doors. All rooms have an extended 3.6m ceiling height.

HighRidge is ideally located near a number of popular wedding venues including Cassels, Waitakere Estate, Artisan, Soljans Estate Winery, Gracehill Vineyard Estate and Lincoln Green Motor Hotel.

In addition to pre-wedding packages, HighRidge has been used for several other events such as cooking classes, chocolate tasting, wine tasting, jewellery workshops, celebrity interviews, product photo shoots and as a Shortland Street set location.

"The north-facing property opens to a grand foyer and has five bedrooms, one of which has its own mini kitchen. All rooms have ensuites and a private balcony overlooking the manicured gardens, ponds and a fountain," Dixon says.

The villa also features a designer kitchen, two living areas with gas fire places, a laundry, two dining rooms for breakfast, a study and a cellar. The building has underfloor heating throughout and has parking for eight cars outside.

Dixon says HighRidge is a stand-out, aspirational property that ticks all the boxes. He says the wedding market continues to flourish. According to Statistics New Zealand, 19,237 marriages were registered to New Zealand residents last year.

Wedding tourism also makes up an increasing contribution to the nuptials market.

"The country's natural beauty and personalised wedding options on offer are significant attractions for the couples who travel here to be married," Dixon says.

"HighRidge is a special slice of New Zealand that is just waiting for a new owner to take over a luxury property and take it to the next level."

Dixon says the well presented, niche business would suit an investor or owner operator.

What's on offer?
• The property: HighRidge Country House.
• Location: Pheasant Lane and 16 Gum Rd, Waitakere.
• Agency: Bayleys Auckland Central.
• Sales method: Tenders closing December 4.
• Features:
Boutique Italian-style two-storey villa.
25-minute drive from Auckland CBD.
Specialises in growing pre-wedding market.
Freehold 4.3 ha landscaped grounds.
Spectacular views of Waitakere Ranges.