“The commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship is evident, which gives visitors a true feeling that they’ve stepped back in time.”
Those with a passion for the wild west no longer have to be content with just experiencing frontier aesthetics through film and television – a detailed replica of an 1890s Wyoming town has returned to the market, after its initial 2020 listing had to be put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This replica is located a fair distance from the state it’s inspired by, as Mellonsfolly Ranch is located on the Central Plateau of New Zealand’s North Island. Situated on 400-hectares of unspoiled native bush at 440 Crotons Road, the Ranch features 10 period buildings connected by a boardwalk. These buildings include the licensed ‘Lucky Strike’ saloon, a courthouse that doubles as a cinema or conference venue, sheriff’s office, general store and billiards lounge.
“Meticulous in detail with furnishings and collectables sourced over many trips to the United States, the commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship is evident, which gives visitors a true feeling that they’ve stepped back in time,” states John Bartley of Bayleys Whanganui.
Mr. Bartley and his colleagues Duncan Ross and Knud Bukholt have been appointed to market the property via an International Expressions of Interest campaign concluding on Friday the 11th of November, 2022.
440 Crotons Road, Ruatiti Valley, RD6 Raetihi, 5462, New Zealand
“Some highlights include the 13 guest rooms – each decorated in the theme of a historical figure from the old west, livery/stable with saddle room, and a plentitude of western activity equipment,” Mr. Bartley explained.
The property also serves as home for Waterfall Mountain Honey, which produces and stores Manuka honey from hives located on the land. And whilst the honey operation is not being advertised as part of the sale, the owners are reportedly “open to negotiatons”, according to Mr. Bukholt.
The property’s initial listing prompted enquiries from a range of commercial property investors, and the team at Bayleys believe the quality of the site and its accompanying amenities will lead to a resurgence of interest from the general public.
“With the world open for business after the pandemic hiatus, it’s an excellent opening to maximise flexible use for leisure and tourism with options including but not limited to; boutique accommodation, a themed tourist attraction, commercial hunting operation, eco-retreat, or simply a private bolt hole away from it all.”
440 Crotons Road, Ruatiti Valley, RD6 Raetihi, 5462, New Zealand
Border bans were dropped by the New Zealand government in July, further empowering the country’s tourism industry, and given its economic and political strength, few countries are as alluring for investment from international investors as New Zealand.
“The property presents a strong option for investors internationally attracted by the country’s balanced service, rural and manufacturing economy,” Bartley says.
It's rare that a truly peerless hospitality offering makes its way to market. For the successful buyer, the rolling hills of the Ruatiti Valley will provide the backdrop for an inimitable asset that needs to be seen to be believed.
