Old Patea Post Office perfect place for weary traveller

Graeme Shepherd.

Former Cook Strait ferry captain Graeme Shepherd is preparing for a busy summer season around tourists and families on holiday who are travelling through Taranaki.

The Post House, a B&B upstairs and his home downstairs, is the grand old Post and Telegraph building, Patea's old post office.

Upstairs in this imposing two-storied landmark building are sweeping views over the town and out to the sea.

The four bedrooms upstairs are all spacious with top of the range comfortable bed each
hallmarked with character.

There is a sunny kitchen for self catering and continental breakfast is provided.

Graeme said he never imagined himself running a B&B.

"But the space is here and I'm not back at sea yet and summer's coming up. So it's a worthwhile venture.''

Already there are some solid bookings.

A family group have booked for a week for a big family wedding, and a woman is keen on booking for two months while she looks round for a property to buy in the area.

The old Post Office is over two titles and fenced and gated.

Graeme said when he saw the building back in 2007 he decided it was just what he needed - a "nice old post office".

He is amazed at the number of young foreign cyclists coming through Patea who need a room for the night.

"They're from overseas they have all the lycra gear and are cycling through the whole country. I find that very impressive."

Initially he wasn't absolutely sure that his B&B would be a goer.

"I'm feeling better about it now. But I would like someone to run it with me it can get a bit lonely.''

First built in 1870, the old building was enlarged but unique features like glorious tall pillars make this a wonderful building inside and out.