One of Karori’s oldest homes, where Katherine Mansfield lived as a child and which later inspired her writing, has been put up for sale.
Chesney Wold, at 372 Karori Road, was built in 1866 and is being offered for sale by tender, with offers closing at 1pm on 1 October.
The historic five-bedroom home has been valued at almost $2 million.
It was originally built by Stephen Lancaster, Karori’s first mayor, who raised 12 children there.
Katherine Mansfield later lived at Chesney Wold during her childhood in the late 1800s.
The property became part of Mansfield’s literary world. Her short story The Doll’s House was set there, while About Pat drew inspiration from the groundskeeper who worked at Chesney Wold.
The house has undergone extensive changes during its 160-year history.
What was once a rural property covering about 5.7 hectares was later converted into flats before being restored as a family home.
Today the property sits on 666 square metres of land, with a 311 square metre house containing five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a study and several living areas.
Ray White salesperson Christy Kimble told RNZ the current owners were looking to downsize after raising their family at the property.
Despite extensive renovation, the home retains many of its original character features, including large sash windows, decorative fretwork, high ceilings and historic plaster detailing.
“It’s like art being built into the walls, via the plaster. It’s so beautiful,” Kimble told RNZ.
The property has also been substantially modernised.
According to the Ray White listing, work carried out by the current owners includes interior and exterior repainting, a new steel roof installed in 2023, renovated bathrooms and kitchen, double glazing and the installation of solar panels and a battery.
The house also has central heating, an open fireplace, multiple decks, established gardens and off-street parking for six vehicles, including a double carport with an EV charger.
Ray White describes Chesney Wold as one of the earliest homes built in Karori.
The property remains a tangible link between present-day Karori and Mansfield, who went on to become one of New Zealand’s most internationally recognised writers.
The tender for 372 Karori Road closes on 1 October, with no offers being accepted before the closing date. For the full listing visit: https://rwwellingtoncity.co.nz/properties/residential-for-sale/wellington-city/karori-6012/house/3575510?utm_source=chatgpt.com
