Explore

They bought a rundown church in a tiny town. Now it's time for an emotional goodbye

A restored 1876 Ahaura church home is for sale, ending a family's 13-year renovation journey.

Alan Granville
Last updated: 22 July 2026 | 3 min read
AI

AI summary

After a 13-year journey, a family is selling their beautifully renovated St Andrews Anglican Church in Ahaura. The historic 1876 building has been transformed into a modern home with a mezzanine, new kitchen, and updated utilities, while sympathetically preserving its character.

The West Coast property also includes two renovated World War II cabins, which serve as a studio and games room. This unique home represents an emotional chapter for the owners and is now listed with Harcourts for its next custodian.

A modern kitchen was added. Photo: HARCOURTS/TRADE ME

Interior transformation

The building has also been rewired, replumbed, repiled and fitted with a new roof. A restored church interior combining heritage charm with modern living, featuring timber details, a contemporary kitchen, mezzanine bedroom and unique character features.

Many of the original windows were kept. Photo: HARCOURTS/TRADE ME

The mezzanine level has room for a queen-sized bed and two bunks. Photo: HARCOURTS/TRADE ME

The covered deck. Photo: HARCOURTS/TRADE ME

Cabin transformation

Two WWII-era cabins were transformed into stylish spaces, with insulation, new cladding and roofing, becoming a beauty studio and family games room.

St Andrews Anglican Church in Ahaura. Photo: HARCOURTS/TRADE ME

Author

Alan Granville Alan Granville
Stuff