He says the project might take more than three months to finish.
When completed, the southern wing at the back of the building will have an entrance.
"When you remember back in the days when people were farming, they used to have those entrances at the back. It was very important as it linked directly to the kitchen and they could bring food there straight away," Mr Rapley said.
The interior will be restored as it was with kauri floors and materials as close to possible as it was originally.
The Homestead committee estimated the costs of the restoration at about $350,000 and received $175,000 in funding from TECT.
"This is half of the amount we needed. When they approved our funding it was a huge relief," Deputy Chairman Peter Robertson said.
The Homestead has also raised about $70,000 through its club day.
Waimata Hall Trust contributed to $20,000 as well as the Rapley Trust which contributed $16,000.
The committee will apply to the Lottery Commission in mid-January to raise the rest of the funds they need to complete the project.
Last year, volunteers at the Homestead received the Supreme Award at the Trustpower Western Bay of Plenty Community Awards for their long-time commitment to bring the 1878 heritage building back to life.
- To enquire, contact the Rapley Trust on 027 4798 489.
New opening hours:
* The Athenree Homestead and the Station cafe will be open from Sunday, January 8 every Sunday midday to 3pm until the end of March.
