Holiday home for journalists on the market

A historic home in Akaroa is heading to auction after falling into disrepair.

Harcourts listing agent Jackie Maw says the "as is, where is" sale of the tired five-bedroom villa at 11 Rue Balguerie is a “rare opportunity” to buy one of Akaroa's landmark homes at an affordable price.

It was set to be auctioned on July 2.

The property, which dates back to the 1860s and has an RV of $725,000, has been used for nearly 60 years as holiday accommodation for journalists.

Its life as a retreat began in 1967 after it was bought by a longtime journalist with The Press, David Corboy, who subsequently transferred ownership to the local branch of the former NZ Journalists Association.

It is now administered by the Corboy House Trust – a tribute to Corboy – on behalf of the union E Tū.

Maw told OneRoof the property had seen better days.

“Long story short, I spoke with (one of the trustees). The trust has run out of money. The place has fallen into disrepair, and they need it sold,” she said.

“Part of the condition of sale is that I have to find another property in Akaroa. Something low maintenance and more amenable.”

Maw said the house had attracted considerable interest.

“This is probably one of the most iconic historical properties that’s fallen into disrepair but has come to market. It would be great to see it done up,” she told OneRoof.

Maw said the cost-of-living crisis and the war in Iran had boosted interest in Akaroa’s holiday homes because of their proximity to Christchurch.

“I’m dealing with a lot of people who are selling up in Queenstown, Wānaka, Twizel, and they’re buying here in Akaroa.”

Corboy House Trust president Austen Calder told OneRoof he had holidayed at the property for about 15 years and over time had become involved in the trust. He said the trust’s kitty had run dry.

“The value has increased, and rates and insurances have skyrocketed. I have been dipping into my own pocket for a while to pay rates (and other costs).”