137 Matchitt Road, Opotiki Surrounds, Opotiki

A timeless estate with a story to carry forward

This 47.0022 hectare (more or less) property on Matchitt Road, Ōpōtiki, sits within a predominantly farming and horticultural district and offers a well established, highly functional rural holding. The land is flat in contour and thoughtfully laid out, featuring established races, good fencing, and effective drainage. The pasture is of strong quality, supported by a consistent fertiliser programme, and the property is currently leased to a neighbouring dairy operation.

The holding comprises two titles positioned on either side of Matchitt Road, providing flexibility for future subdivision into two smaller blocks if desired.

At the centre of the property stands the original homestead, complemented by two additional dwellings. The homestead is currently occupied by a family member, while the two three bedroom homes, now derelict, offer scope for restoration or redevelopment.
Believed to date back to circa 1879, the homestead is constructed from native timbers including kauri and rimu and features an impressive 14 foot stud. The home includes three bedrooms, a kitchen and dining area, and a bathroom, all showcasing original wooden panelling, high stud ceilings, and preserved period features that reinforce its authentic character. While the property has undergone careful maintenance, including re roofing and refurbishment in 2019, it retains numerous original elements such as wallpaper, cabinetry, and a mantle clock, preserving its historic charm. Additional unique items include a hand forged iron anvil, historic glass cabinetry believed to date back to the 1940s or earlier, and a Pou Whenua located beneath the magnolia tree, marking significant moments in the property's story.

Beyond its practical attributes, Te Kahakaha carries a depth of heritage that sets it apart. The estate was acquired by Charles Hulme Matchitt in 1886 and has remained in the Matchitt family ever since, and believed to be the only remaining real estate globally still held by the original English Matchitt lineage. Charles and his brother George farmed the land until 1900, establishing a legacy that has continued through generations. The property also holds strong cultural significance, with whakapapa deeply interwoven into its identity. Hokimate Raniera Matchitt lived at Te Kahakaha for 74 years, from 1949 until her passing in 2023 at age 95, making her the longest standing resident. Today, the family's connection to the land remains active and enduring.

Te Kahakaha represents a rare opportunity to secure a property that blends productive farmland, development potential, and a homestead rich in heritage, offering not only a place to live, but a legacy of historical and cultural importance.