Waikato: On Millionaire’s Mile

Famous in professional horse circles near and far is this exceptional 20ha property in the Waikato. By CEDRIC GRAY.

A superbly presented Waikato property, which has won for itself an international reputation for its horse training facilities and preparation of yearlings for New Zealand Bloodstock sales, is on the market.

The property, about 8km south of Cambridge on SH1, has a frontage to Gorton Rd, known to many in the district as Waikato's millionaire's mile. The description reflects the value of the real estate, the diligent farm management evident on all sides, and the impressive homes in the neighbourhood.

Owned by Bob and Glenda Skinner, the 20ha property was last month featured in an Australian thoroughbred journal under the heading In Search of Perfection. Written before the property was placed on the market, the author described the farm as being 'lovingly manicured ... a highly functional farm that has attracted an international clientele'.

The clients include leading New Zealand trainers, the renowned Cambridge Stud and thoroughbred owners in Australia, Asia and the US. "We pride ourselves that the horses go away looking well and ready," says Bob. "They're well conditioned."

The Skinners have spent a fortune on farm improvements to ensure they can cater for the top end of the thoroughbred market. During the past five years they have increased the number of paddocks from 11 to 46, adding 20,000m of post-and-rail fencing in the process for animal safety and aesthetic appeal.

About 9000sq m of sealed driveways have been laid for ease of stock movement and scores of trees planted for shelter and beautification. The scene is typical Waikato, with oakes, liquidambars, elders and other species adding their own distinctive touch.

The land is extremely fertile. "We can comfortably carry 60 horses here," says Bob. "The pasture growth is unbelievable. "About 1000 bales of silage are harvested each year.

The outbuildings are in immaculate condition. They include three barns, 20 boxes, tie-up stalls and two well-appointed staff cottages. Both are self-contained, with one and two bedrooms respectively.

The newly refurbished four-bedroom home is surrounded by lovely lawns and gardens. Designed for indoor-outdoor entertaining, the main living areas open to an in-ground swimming pool, courtyard and sheltered barbecue area. There is a modern kitchen, large games room and bar, and two of the bedrooms have en suites. Four-car garaging is at the end of the long sealed driveway.

Don Thompson, of Don Thompson Real Estate, Hamilton, describes the property - with an asking price "in the $2 million range" - as one of the finest he has marketed in his 42 years in rural real estate. For further details, contact Don on 07 854 5553 or 021 960 415 mob.