Built in 1864 by Charles White, the Courtenay Hotel was one of the first “coaching inns” between Christchurch and the goldfields on the West Coast of New Zealand. It was a center of activity in the region, hosting travelers, social activities and council meetings.
The building had fallen into disrepair over the decades until a previous owner took on the project, bringing it up to date by fully insulated it, doing the re-plumbing and re-wiring.
The only original elements from the 1860s are the Baltic pine floorboards on the top floor and a back-to-back fireplace.
The building is designated a Heritage Place, meaning the outside, especially the view from the road, “is not to be tampered with”, but there is more freedom inside.
Because of its former life as a hotel, the proportions are generous inside, particularly in the kitchen.
There are two master bedroom suites as well as smaller rooms where beds can be added.
Outside, the gardens are mature and contain trees more than 150 years old.
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