Feature article
‘Smashed up and broken by vandals’: The man who brought Oamaru’s grand old hotel back to life
A 140-year-old Oamaru hotel has been painstakingly restored after years of neglect, vandalism and changing uses.
AI summary
The historic Junction Hotel in Oamaru has been painstakingly restored by owner Ian Murton. After purchasing the 140-year-old building in a derelict state—gutted, vandalized, and altered—Murton spent three years returning it to its 1880s grandeur with help from local artisans.
Supported by the Waitaki Heritage Fund, the project revived the building's original character. Now a stunning six-bedroom residence, the property is for sale as Murton is downsizing, offering significant potential as a luxury B&B or wedding venue.
The forma living room is painted in a colour Ian Murton has specifically matched to the original paint. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The Junction Hotel through the years
Historic photographs reveal the Junction Hotel’s past, from its heyday in Oamaru to its years as a “dry” hotel and changing uses.
The building during its restoration by owner Ian Murton. Photo: Supplied
The same bit of wall today, restored to its former glory. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
Ian tried to be as authentic as possible with his interiors. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The home has six bedrooms, this one is in its original green. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
Ian had to add a couple of bathrooms, it now has four. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The original staircase, which had been completely destroyed by vandals, is now restored. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The home has six sitting rooms and a study, which has its own fireplace. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
The original pediment is now a stone garden feature. Photo: TRADE ME/ONE AGENCY
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