Tasman estate offers new model for rural ownership

In the wild, water-laced landscape of Mangarākau, just south of the iconic Farewell Spit, a rare Tasman estate is quietly rewriting the rulebook on rural ownership. Neither a conventional lifestyle block nor a single-purpose enterprise, the property at 115 Snake Creek Road brings together home, income and conservation in a way that reflects how many Kiwis now want their land to work.

Set across more than 38 hectares in one of New Zealand’s most ecologically significant areas, the estate combines a self-sufficient two-bedroom home, two established guest chalets, productive grazing land and a protected wetland that also functions as a carbon farm. Additional pasture and a well-established beekeeping operation are available for purchase separately.

With an asking price of $1,000,000 plus GST (if any), Bayleys Motueka Lifestyle Sales specialist Claire Stilwell says the property aligns with increasing demand for rural holdings that combine lifestyle appeal with income security and environmental credentials.

“This Mangarākau estate delivers a rare balance. It offers the freedom and beauty that people associate with remote living, but with demonstrated earning capacity. It’s land that supports both lifestyle and livelihood.

“The primary residence is practical, warm, and designed for year-round living. Recently insulated and heated by a wood burner with wetback stove, it features an open-plan living area, office, separate studio or sleepout, generous storage and a large three-bay shed. Positioned for sun and shelter, it looks out toward the dramatic Mangarākau limestone cliffs – a truly spectacular backdrop.”

Stilwell says that rainwater tanks and productive gardens support self-sufficiency, while a north-facing deck opens out to a landscape teeming with life, including kāhu, kereru, tomtit, bittern and grey warbler.

Beyond the home, the land has been carefully structured rather than overworked. Approximately 30ha are protected under a QEII (Queen Elizabeth II National Trust) covenant, safeguarding the nationally significant Mangarākau Wetland while generating income through carbon farming.

The remaining land is actively productive, with fenced pasture currently leased for grazing, and scope for expansion, including an additional parcel available alongside the main title.

Stilwell says tourism adds another layer of opportunity. Two well-performing chalets already operate on the property, attracting travellers drawn to the wild coastlines and genuine quiet. Resource consent is in place for four additional chalets, providing a clear pathway for growth while retaining control over scale and impact.

What ultimately sets the estate apart, however, is its setting. West Coast beaches are just minutes away. Bush tracks wind through rimu, rata and nikau. Rivers, waterfalls, glow worm grottos and swimming holes sit within easy reach.

“For owners, the lifestyle here is immense. A place for birdwatching, hunting, fishing, diving, whitebaiting, hiking, mountain biking, observing, enjoying or simply being still. Leisure isn’t scheduled; it’s shaped by weather, tide, and curiosity.

“As more and more Kiwis reassess what rural ownership can deliver in a changing world, Mangarākau offers a glimpse of what comes next; land held with purpose, used with care and structured to endure.”