Feature article
'We never treated it like a fancy mansion': Grand on the outside, beloved family home on the inside
A grand Gisborne home has been a much-loved family base for 14 years, with its next chapter now up for auction.

AI summary
A grand colonial home in Whataupoko, Gisborne, is for sale after 14 years as a beloved family base. Despite its stately appearance, the seven-bedroom house was treated as a practical home, not a "fancy mansion."
Built circa 1917, the property retains original features like ornate ceilings alongside modern upgrades, including an updated kitchen and a log burner. The home has a rich history, once serving as a guesthouse and hostel. The current owners are downsizing.
A grand interior made for family life


Built in 1917 for local businessman Thomas Edward Toneycliffe, the home has been a guesthouse, wedding venue, Māori boys' hostel and family home.
It was once surrounded by paddocks. Photo: SUPPLIED BY CHRISTINE MCINNES
The home maintains a lot of original features. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
The piano room is a favourite of Christine’s. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
A log fire was added. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
There are seven bedrooms. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
Good place for a game of footie?. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
Previous owners updated the kitchen. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
The pool area. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
The family use the garage entrance more often than the front door. Photo: RAY WHITE/TRADE ME
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