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
Owner Ian Murton has painstakingly restored Oamaru's historic Junction Hotel to its 1880s grandeur. After purchasing the derelict building in 2019, he repaired extensive damage from decades of neglect and vandalism, with support from local artisans and the Waitaki Heritage Fund.
The meticulous restoration revived authentic period details throughout the six-bedroom property. Now seeking a new owner, the hotel presents a unique opportunity to operate a bed and breakfast or boutique event venue in a prime location.
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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